Earlier, a true Masonic Signet Ring used to leave a raised positive design upon the material or the body onto which it was pressed. Since these rings were used to engrave a 3D image on the seal, a mirror image of the symbol was created and worn by the bearer. The cameo (raised face) type of ring when pressed on the wax used to leave behind a depressed design in it and that was read as the sign of the bearer.
These days, such true Masonic signet rings have become unnecessary owing to the lack of their functionality and hence no more mirror images are engraved on them. Also because of this the design in the Modern days ring need not be raised face type necessarily and can also be a flat-face design too. The less intricate designs also facilitate easy cleaning of the rings.
While creating any Signet ring, the basic ring is first created without any ornaments upon its face. After this it’s oversized flat metal surface is cut (or incised) with an imprint of the symbol or design which the wearer wishes to display. Any number of designs can be created on such flat metal beds.