Can you resize a carved stone signet?

Yes, mostly. A skilled jeweller cuts the back of the band and adds or removes gold. They've got to manage the heat carefully. If the torch gets too close to a lapis or bloodstone, the gem can crack or change colour.

I have inherited my grandfather's ring and the crest has worn down so much you can hardly see the lion anymore. Can this be recut?

Recutting a worn gold matrix is possible. A hand-engraver uses steel gravers to deepen the original lines and bring the lion back to life. This removes more metal from the bezel. If the top is already thin, the engraver might punch right through to the hollow back. Solid bezels take a recut well. Check the thickness from the side before proceeding.

What does a bloodstone look like?

Bloodstone is a dark green jasper. It has distinct red spots running through the material. Jewellers favour it for signets because it takes a polish well and does not chip easily.

When I look at the hallmarks inside the band, the letters are upside down compared to the maker's mark next to it. Is that normal?

Standard practice varied across different assay offices. The punches were applied by hand, often in a hurry. The clerk simply struck the metal where there was space. Upside down or overlapping marks appear frequently on genuine rings.

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Antique Signet Rings

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Antique signet rings are personal, wearable seals featuring an engraved flat bezel, historically used to press into hot wax to authenticate letters and legal documents.

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