- Explore the Signet
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Origins and Traditions
Few pieces of jewellery can match the history of the signet. Of all designs of ring, it has been the one that has been worn continuously and that has maintained its symbolic value. From its earliest days, when few could write and the seals they bore were a distinguishing mark essential for governance and business, it has continued to endure. And in each age the signet has been reinterpreted; through the middle ages when heraldic shields and coats of arms were introduced, and on into the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries when they became a symbol of gentlemanly ascensions to fortune by sword and wit and were venerated as heirlooms, to more recent reinterpretations when the signet has come to symbolise present-day moments of celebration and achievement.
Our signet design is firmly woven into these traditions. It stands above seasons and trends and continues to complement any occasion and style. In the spirit of our own times, our Graduation signet is simple, limiting the inscription to the bezel around the shield and the option of two discreet side panels referencing your degree on each shoulder of the ring. Utmost it has been designed to be beautiful and clearly express your achievement.
The Arms
The University's arms were adopted by the University around 1400 by which time a book was regarded as the appropriate central feature for a university. The heavy volume with clasps was useful in protecting its leaves and symbolical of its character as a treasure chamber of knowledge.
The origin of the three crowns is not known exactly but may be connected with Thomas Cranley, Warden of New College from 1389 to 1396 and Chancellor of the University in 1390, who adopted them for his personal use in c1386. They were also given by Richard II to Robert de Vere, 9th Earl of Oxford, when he created him Duke of Ireland in 1386. Three crowns were also associated with King Edmund the Martyr, King Arthur and Jesus Christ.
The legend has had various forms. One of these, no longer in use, was Veritas Liberabit, Bonitas Regnabit, which may be translated as 'the truth will set (you) free, goodness will reign'. Veritas Liberabit may have been taken from the gospel of St John chapter 8, verse 32. The source for Bonitas Regnabit is unknown. Another legend previously in use was Sapientiae et Felicitatis, meaning 'of wisdom and happiness'.
The present legend, Dominus Illuminatio Mea (the opening words of Psalm 27, which may be translated as 'the Lord is my light'), was in at least occasional use by the second half of the 16th century. The current University device was designed in 1993.
Individually crafted
The ring is the product of meticulous craftsmanship. Each ring is made from absolutely pure alloys and painstakingly cast, removing the possibility of imperfections and ensuring the finished ring is both beautiful and durable and in the spirit of a piece of jewellery that will last a lifetime.
Every ring is limited to an edition of one: the one you personalise and commission us to make. It will be designed by obsessives, crafted by obsessives, and we believe our workmanship does justice to the hard work and the values that you put into your time at university and will ensure our name remains synonymous with quality and perfect craftsmanship.