All about men's rings and signets: choice, care, meaning


You can often come across the opinion that rings and rings are only suitable for women. But those who think so forget that it was men who first started wearing them.

Previously, they had important symbolic meaning or performed utilitarian functions.

Today they have turned into an interesting decoration that can be an excellent addition to the image.

An elegant ring or a massive ring can be that small detail that will give it completeness.

What metal is better for a man to buy a ring from?

There are no standards here, everything is individual and depends on the preferences of each person, his income and capabilities. This could be a gold signet decorated with stones, or a more modest signet made of silver.

By the way, the new jewelry should be combined with the existing one: if a man already wears, for example, a gold signet, then the second ring should be made of the same metal.

Types of men's rings

Strictly speaking, a ring is a type of ring, and a signet, in turn, is a type of ring.

But most often men do not wear them, but ordinary rings - narrow and wide, light and massive, simple smooth or decorated with patterns and stones. Everyone chooses such decoration according to their taste and budget.

Rings that have symbolic meaning stand apart.

And first of all, of course, we should mention wedding rings. Spouses wear them to emphasize their fidelity to each other, this is a sign of eternal love. Gold wedding rings are considered traditional. They are smooth and look very simple.

This is not surprising, because they are not primarily decoration - their symbolic meaning is much more important.

Another type of symbol ring is the “Save and Preserve” ring.

Such an accessory is not just a way to attract attention or a successful addition to an image, it represents something more. The words of prayer written on the ring are an appeal to higher powers. For a believer they are of great importance.

Ring

A ring is a massive ring made of precious metal, decorated with a precious or semi-precious stone. It is one of the traditional typically male accessories.

Rings were worn in ancient times; in former times they emphasized the special status of their owner.

Nowadays, these decorations have lost a significant part of their elitism. However, even today very few people can afford a spectacular, beautiful ring decorated with a beautiful diamond. It can become an excellent symbol of the financial viability of its owner.

There are also more laconic options - strict men's rings with small stones.

A ring - either a massive one, decorated with a large stone, or a more restrained and strict one - is an excellent accessory for a person who loves luxury and is not afraid to stand out from the crowd.

Signet

Classic signets are large, heavy rings with a round or square shaped area on which an image is applied.

In earlier times, they had a very specific use - the owners used them to make impressions on sealing wax or wax when they sealed letters.

Most often, the signet depicted the coat of arms of the family to which its owner belonged, or his initials. Moreover, the design was reversed, mirrored: when the owner of the signet made an impression, the correct “picture” remained on the sealing wax.

Signets were widespread in ancient times, and later they were used by the medieval nobility. Along with their practical use, they also had great symbolic meaning, being a sign of the noble dignity of their owner.

In general, it is difficult to imagine a more prestigious piece of jewelry. In addition to the aristocracy, they were also worn by officials and members of secret societies.

However, today wearing a signet is no longer a sign of belonging to the nobility: many of those who are aristocrats by blood do not wear them. At the same time, anyone who has enough money can buy this accessory.

To choose with or without stone?

Men's rings with precious stones, such as diamonds, have always been considered the most stylish. But here, too, everything is individual and depends on the wishes and tastes of the man. Some people like small signets decorated with cubic zirconia, others like massive signets with engraving and without stones. You will have to either casually ask your man about his preferences, or look at the rings that he already wears, or rely on intuition and feminine instinct.

What is a ring: traditions of the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, a certain symbolism for men's rings, in particular rings, became significantly established. It was during this period that rings with images of special coats of arms appeared, which became a kind of family heirloom, and were preserved in the family for several centuries.

In addition, in the Middle Ages there were functional rings that were used by warriors and various ranks.

Closer to the 18th century, more sophisticated types of rings appeared, indicating signs of wealth. Closer to the 19th century, rings practically disappeared from everyday life, especially in the territory of the former CIS.

How to choose the right ring size?

There are many ways to determine a man's ring size. Here are some of them. The easiest way is to ask. True, then there may not be an unexpected surprise. Another way is to take a ring you already have and take it to a jewelry store. This way you will know exactly the size of the ring and will not go wrong with your choice.

It happens that you can’t take the ring. In this case, a regular sheet of paper will help. Place the ring on it, circle it several times along the outer and inner edges. Using this picture, you can easily determine the size of the ring.

Another common case is that a man has not worn jewelry before and does not know the ring size. Here you have to use your imagination. Invisibly tie his finger with a thread or a strip of paper, a napkin, etc., and then measure the resulting segment. This will be an excellent guide for choosing a ring or signet.

We hope that our tips will help you choose jewelry for your loved one. In the catalog of the Rossyuvelirtorg online store you will find more than 35,000 different jewelry for men: rings, signets, chains, watches, cufflinks and much more.

Landing

Many men complain that they are uncomfortable wearing “difficult jewelry.” Women tend to suspect deceit in their chosen ones: they are sure that these complaints are connected with the desire to hide their marital status. In fact, men find it really difficult to find a comfortable headband. Overworked hands, large joints - all this causes some discomfort. Choose models with a comfortable fit, when the inside of the tire is slightly rounded, and perhaps the groom will change his mind.

Another reason for inconvenience is inattention when selecting jewelry. Representatives of the strong half of humanity are a little like children. Due to their reluctance to measure for a long time, they agree to the first proposed option. So make sure your other half tries on a few styles and really appreciates how comfortable they are.

Men's wedding ring made of white gold with a square pattern (price on the link)

Rings

These massive products are necessarily decorated with a large convex stone

. It can be both precious and ornamental. It was thanks to certain characteristics of the stones that the properties of amulets and talismans were attributed to such jewelry.

Initially, such jewelry was worn exclusively by men due to its massiveness. Many of them became symbols of power and might. If you pay attention to the numerous portraits of rulers of powers or noble nobles, you will notice how carefully all the rings and rings on their hands are drawn. It was the rings that became symbols of power. They were passed down from generation to generation, from the head of the family to the first heir.

The most famous rings are:

  1. Ruby ring of Paul II
    , which he received after his initiation as a Grand Master. It is currently kept in the Hermitage.
  2. Ring of King John the Landless of England with turquoise
    , with which he checked whether food was poisoned. According to legend, this stone changes color in the presence of any poison.
  3. The magical ring of the Prophet Muhammad
    was decorated with carnelian.
  4. Each Pope, upon ascending the throne, receives a ring called “ Fisherman
    ”. A personal ring is made for each new ruler of the Vatican.

There are many legends about rings with hidden places. They contained images of lovers, locks of their hair, as well as powerful poisons. For example, many pieces of jewelry from the Borgia family, known for dealing with their ill-wishers using poisons, contain similar containers. Members of this family not only knew a lot about various poisons, but also independently developed designs for rings with various cunning devices that allowed them to store poison in them.

The most famous of them are the Flame of the Borgia

and
The Lion's Claw
. In the latter, a special needle with poison was installed, which came into action when shaking hands.

Features of choosing a signet: sorting out the forms

A signet is a difficult accessory to select. It seems that everything is as usual (you need to take into account your style and design of the jewelry, study fashion trends, choose the material), but there is one big nuance - the shape. It determines how the jewelry will look on your hand, whether it will fit into an everyday outfit or whether it will require a special outfit.

How to choose a signet for a man based on its shape? Let's try to understand jewelry geometry:

  • Square. This form is a classic. The square platform “migrated” from antiquity: it was most convenient to leave initials on it and depict a coat of arms. Modern square signets do not lose their popularity, thanks to the strict lines that most men love so much. Such jewelry conveys masculinity and confidence. The product is often chosen by connoisseurs of business style clothing.
  • Rectangle. This form of signet appeared relatively recently, but has already become very popular. The rectangle does not look massive, which allows the owner not to advertise his status, but only skillfully emphasize it. Rectangular signets are often chosen by young guys, because the accessory looks really stylish, modern and at the same time elegant. The rectangular platform is often decorated with carvings, enamel elements, and a couple of small diamonds.

  • Oval/circle. Models with such a platform are rare, because rounded elements are more suitable for women's jewelry. When choosing such a signet, you need to be careful about creating the image: it should not be too soft. The best option is if there is an engraved symbol on the round platform. For example, a family coat of arms, a state coat of arms.
  • Figure. A distinctive feature of such accessories is a platform in the form of a figure. The most common is the head of an animal (wolf, tiger), but there are other options: for example, a card suit. Jewelers are still arguing whether a ring with a figured platform should be considered a signet, but stores “don’t bother” with the question and classify unusual jewelry as a signet. Interesting accessories are usually made of silver. They are ideal for young guys - unusual, stylish, shocking. But older men should abandon overly original solutions in favor of the classics.

About the designation of stones on a man's ring

As you already understand, to obtain a ring you can use a lot of different precious and semi-precious stones, each of which contains its own energy.

Amethyst will help you get rid of annoying and bad habits, and will also lead you to wealth. Ruby is quite a strong stone. It promotes the emergence of power and brings good luck to the home.

Ruby gives the strength of a lion, the fearlessness of an eagle and the wisdom of a snake.

Agate contributes to the acquisition of a family hearth, constant profit, healthy body and spirit. The tiger's eye guarantees financial independence, speeds up your career advancement, and encourages you to start your own business. Jade helps strengthen men's health, will help you gain strength and live your whole life.

We give advice on choosing a men's ring

When choosing a ring, do not forget to consider your image. Practice shows that a simple and discreet option looks much better. However, you can easily buy a ring with a large and flashy stone, if your entire appearance allows it.

Choose the right ring

Tips for choosing a men's ring:

  1. The main task is to understand for what image you are buying a ring. If you want to show off your wealth and status, choose an expensive item made of precious metal in a classic style. And if you want to make it your business card, you should look at a more unusual option;
  2. If you are wearing a wedding ring, then the new ring should be of the same material;
  3. If you are on a tight budget, choose a steel ring. It is relatively inexpensive, but looks no worse. Also, steel rings are distinguished by a variety of designs;
  4. If you are buying a ring for the first time, choose jewelry without unnecessary details. This will make it easier to get used to it;
  5. Buy a ring only in trusted salons. Thus, the risk of purchasing a fake is minimal;
  6. Be sure to select the ring size and do not forget to try it on before purchasing.

How to wear a ring and signet correctly

To seal a letter or put an imprint on documents, nobles removed the signet from the little finger of their left hand. This is the best place for an accessory - this is still believed today. Firstly, there are no religious traditions associated with this finger in any culture, and secondly, massive jewelry here looks harmonious.

Exceptions apply to family signets: the head puts the decoration on the ring finger of the left hand, while the rest of the family wears it on the ring finger or little finger of the right hand.

The ring can often be seen on the index finger. The arrangement of the accessory is the same in historical portraits. But there are no clear instructions on where to wear jewelry.

Engraving style

Even if the design does not give a clear idea of ​​who the decoration is intended for. But if there is an engraving on its surface (no matter what is written on the ring), it can become an additional way to identify gender.

If the letters are made in a fluid and stretchy, soft manner, the ring is more suitable for a woman. Regardless of what information the engraving carries. After all, the form is what catches your eye first, and only then the meaning.

Men's engraving is done in an extremely dry font, which is not intended to decorate the jewelry, but solely to convey information. In addition, there are alloys that are not worn by men.

All of the above methods together will allow you to independently (without the help of a consultant) classify jewelry in a salon. No one can mislead you.

The video will demonstrate stylish and attractive rings for women:

Based on materials: https://tanzanit.com.ua/koltsa/koltsa-zhenskie/

Rings, finger rings, little rings, “bolts” and “signets” are just the name for various types of finger jewelry. There are millions of types and designs of rings: men's rough, women's delicate, even children's plastic ones - humanity began decorating their hands from the time of living in caves. If we talk about the very origin of the word “ring”, then it is derived from the Old Slavonic “kolo”, that is, circle, wheel. People believed that evil spirits could not overcome the magic circle; a closed line protected a person from evil forces.

Initially, rings were worn as amulets and talismans, babies were bathed in a basin with a silver ring to protect him from illness and the evil eye, then the same ring was also placed under the pillow to ward off bad dreams and protect the baby when he slept. To ensure that childbirth was easy and without complications, in the old days women put on rings at the beginning of pregnancy and did not take them off until the end of the term, this gave expectant mothers more confidence and put them in a positive mood. There was a belief that a husband who was wandering or leaving the family could be brought back by looking at him through the wedding ring.

And how many different kinds of fortune-telling there were using a ring, the magical power contained in a small “golden band” always attracted and kept many secrets. For example, to see their betrothed in a dream, young girls put the ring under the pillow or put it on the toe of their right foot. In turn, in ancient times not everyone could afford to wear a ring. In those days, a ring was not so much a decoration for the hand, but rather a symbol indicating the status and social position of the owner of this jewelry. So, in ancient Rome, only senators were awarded the special honor of wearing gold rings; the rest were only allowed to wear iron ones. It was also important which hand the ring was worn on. The right hand is a symbol of power, and the left is a symbol of the spiritual and heartfelt. Since ancient times, the ring finger on the left hand has been considered associated with the heart and love, hence in eastern countries wedding rings are placed on this finger. In European countries, newlyweds place their rings on the ring finger of their right hand. And the tradition of giving rings when joining in marriage originated in Ancient Egypt. The rounded and closed shape of the ring personified the inexhaustible eternity of love, and the expensive metal symbolized the pricelessness of the feelings of the spouses. In ancient Rus', wedding rings could be worn by the future bride and groom long before the wedding ceremonies. It is not uncommon at a very young age: a boy was given a silver ring as a sign of strength, and a girl was given a gold ring as a sign of purity, beauty and purity.

As a rule, the wedding ring was presented by the groom during the engagement. The engagement ring became an official recognition of their relationship and love union in front of the family and relatives of both parties. In the original, the engagement ring is thinner than the wedding ring, perhaps encrusted with stones or with engraving, graining, or filigree. But for an engagement, it is customary to give the future bride a ring with a diamond, which symbolizes the strength and purity of the love relationship; moreover, it is believed that diamonds bring happiness to the future family. The Italians were the first to encrust engagement rings with diamonds. In their original form, wedding rings had the shape of large signets with the family coat of arms. The usual barrel ring, which we are used to as an engagement ring, is in fact a wedding ring and the only traditional decoration of this ring is the names of lovers or love vows engraved on the inside. Spouses should not take off their wedding rings, believing that the rings will preserve their family happiness and protect them from discord.

Nowadays, rings have taken on many other signifying or symbolizing functions. Western women prefer to wear

maternity rings, where the number of stones indicates the number of children the owner of the ring has. In Britain, there is a strict ban on medical staff wearing wedding rings. Since the area under the ring is not disinfected, and it is sometimes difficult to remove the ring. Highlanders in the Caucasus in the 19th century. they put large silver rings on the thumb of their right hand to quickly and comfortably cock the tight hammers on their weapons. Many Russian officers wore massive rings made of cast iron, iron or steel with a gold lining, on which the name and surname of the owner of the ring was engraved. On the outside, base metals were specially used so that looters would not remove the ring from the dead person.

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