Signet rings are classic, timeless and have been around for centuries. Traditionally, signet rings were used as a way of sealing letters and documents by pressing the ring into wax.

Today, signet rings can be either hand engraved, or laser engraved with initials, family crests, or other symbols.

Read more about the different types of signet ring engraving here.

If you're having a signet ring made, there are several types of gold to choose from - white gold, yellow gold, rose gold and platinum.

In over 10 years of making signet rings, we've found the most popular type of signet ring is the yellow gold signet ring.

In New Zealand and Australia, yellow gold signet rings are usually made  in a variety of different carats of gold - most commonly, 9 carat, 14 carat or 18 carat yellow gold. 

Either you can have one made by a manufacturing jeweller, who is a trade certified professional - or in other words, a qualified person who will make your signet ring for you by hand. 

Alternatively you can buy a signet ring from a retail jewellery store, where you will generally purchase a 'ready made' signet ring from off the shelf i.e. it is not made to order, and is usually 'pre-made'.

The cost of the gold signet ring you choose will depend on a number of factors.

These include the quality of the ring, the carat of gold and the weight of gold - or in other words, the size of the ring. Other factors such as the type of engraving you would like and type/number gemstones may also affect the price.

At Benjamin Black, we craft our signet rings solid and the metal is worked by hand, so they tend to be heavier than some other signet rings made by larger chain brands, and therefore will cost more - but on the flip side, they are higher quality and will wear - and last - much longer. 

We don't hollow out our signet rings underneath the top. If you're looking for a quality signet ring that will wear well and last, it's important to check the underside and ask your jeweller or jewellery salesperson how it was made. 

If the ring is hollow on the underside, plated and/or thin, it is likely to last much less longer than a ring that has been handmade with solid gold. 

In fact, if you care for your gold Benjamin Black signet ring properly, it should last for generations.

So, how much does a yellow gold signet ring actually cost?

We can't speak for other jewellers or jewellery brands, but here is an idea of pricing for Benjamin Black yellow gold signet rings, excluding engraving, gemstones and any additional features.

9 carat yellow gold:

12mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes H-N. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $1940 NZD.

14mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes O-R. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $2440 NZD.

16mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes S-V. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $3040 NZD.

18mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes W-Z. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $3540 NZD.

14 carat yellow gold:

12mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes H-N. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $3470 NZD.

14mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes O-R. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $4700 NZD.

16mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes S-V. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $5840 NZD.

18mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes W-Z The cost excluding engraving and other features is $6820 NZD.

18 carat yellow gold:

12mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes H-N. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $3920 NZD.

14mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes O-R. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $5890 NZD.

16mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes S-V. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $7210 NZD.

18mm diameter top. This top size is recommended for finger sizes W-Z. The cost excluding engraving and other features is $9690 NZD.

Ultimately, the cost of a gold signet ring comes down to personal preference, how long you want it to last, and your budget.

If you're looking for a timeless and elegant piece of jewellery that can be personalised with your own initials or family crest, a gold signet ring may be just what you're looking for.

To find out more about ordering your own custom signet ring, get in touch with our expert team - email us at studio@benjaminblack.co.nz or give us a call on +64 3 546 9137 - we would love to hear from you!