Unlike earlier times signet rings are no longer restricted to those belonging from noble family or a coat of arms; anyone can wear a signet ring if they want to. However, there are still various rules of protocol than can be observed, such as which finger to wear the ring upon or what to display upon your ring. Signet rings still have a significance and symbolism today.
Signet rings were once used as a sign of personal identity. The ring would bear a family crest or coat of arms, and the bearer could stamp the ring upon hot wax to sign a document or seal a letter — producing a “signature.” Today, signet rings are no longer used for this purpose, but they can still convey identity. Often bearing a coat of arms or the crest of a clan, signet rings are a sign of family history and tradition.
Signet rings originated in ancient Rome. The etiquette governing these rings used to dictate that finger rings could be worn only by those of a certain rank, and a signet ring must be removed from the wearer’s finger upon his death. It was considered bad taste to wear more than one ring. Signet rings could depict an individual’s personality rather than their family.