People often wonder what a signet is. The word “Signet” comes from the word “Sign” and hence Signet rings refer to the rings that provide a symbol, a sign or a signature. They were earlier used to officially stamp or mark important documents or even as a mark of recognition. A true Masonic signet ring was used as a seal to validate the authenticity of its owner.
The following were the Functionalities of such Signet Rings::
- Seal of Authentication: Such rings were used to recognize the authenticity of documents, messages from one province/state/country to the other. An authentic or recognized seal meant that the document was authentic. Authorized seals were mostly recognized by all.
- Mark of Identification: Many of such rings were also used as a mark of identification for the individuals and were given to the soldiers and messengers of the king.
- Religious Significance: Signet rings have also been a part of religion in many cultures throughout history. As a sign of their nobility, importance and power Kings, Popes, Bishops, Roman Emperors and other high ranking church officials and noblemen used to wear the Signet rings in the past era. [contd..]