Keep a family tradition alive by having your own crest hand engraved into a signet ring.

Discover your family crest in Fairbairn's book of crests first published in 1859.

A Little History

Setting a personal seal on an object to establish ownership has its roots deep in history and today, families keep a copy of their family crest on signet rings to make their mark on letters and documents.

The 'crest' came from the custom of kings and nobles who rode into battle with their crowns and coronets attached to the battlehelm or 'armlet' by a wreath, which in turn held the 'tinctured' mantling or colours of their family and of course, displayed the privileges of their class.

One of the earliest crests, that belongs to Baldwin of Flanders, dates from 1197, but the crest was not generally seen on the battlefield until the 13th and 14th centuries.

Often resembling the 'charge' in the shield, it became a trademark of a particular family and was incorporated in the 'coat of arms' and 'seal' of the knight and his successors.

Identify your family crest:

With reference to Fairbairns Book of Crests of Great Britain and Ireland, we are able to trace many of the family crests. First published in 1859 it is recognised work and widely used by jewellers and engravers in preparing seals.

Often a family will have a wax impression made from an earlier seal engraving into a signet ring which can be used as a source of artwork for a new engraving.

Select your signet ring:

We have designed a range of styles of rings which can be selected in the metal of your choice. 18ct gold is a richer yellow than 9ct and thanks to modern alloys is equally as durable.

Establish the correct finger size:

The signet ring is traditionally worn on the little finger of the left hand. It is advisable to ensure that the ring is the correct size before it is engraved, although minor adjustments can be made afterwards if necessary.

How much will it cost:

The price of your selected style of deep seal engraving should be added to the cost of your chosen ring. All prices are inclusive of VAT.

Starting work:

To commence work we ask for a deposit of 25% of the total cost of your ring and the cost of the engraving.

The engraving:

Deep seal engraving uses the technique called 'intaglio' engraving. Highly skilled craftsmen engrave the impression deeply by hand in 'reverse' so that an impression may be made into wax showing the design in relief.

Completion:

We would normally expect your ring to be ready to collect approximately 6 weeks from placing your order.

Pricing:

Deep Seal Crest	£300
Deep Seal Crest and Motto	£330
Surface Engraved Crest	£160
Surface Engraved Crest and Motto	£170
Deep Seal Initials	£100 Per Letter
Surface Engraved Initials	£15-20 Depending on font
Inside rings and bangles	£35 For First 10 letters £3 Per Letter After
Large Letters (e.g on Marmite Lid)	£5 Per Letter
Please enquire about any service not listed.