A very special kind of ring, the signet ring is a piece of jewelry that’s made to stand out and be noticed. Historically, those men who wished to display their rank and power in society wore signet rings. They usually featured intricate engravings, unique to every ring. One of the main purposes of a signet ring was to make personalized wax seals for letters and envelopes. Nowadays, they’re more of a cool fashion statement.

Even in the ranks of men’s jewelry, signet rings have always been a sign of wealth and status – a literal form of power dressing, spotted on the pinkies of anyone from kings to bankers, Popes to mobsters. So it’s perhaps a surprise that they are making comeback in fashion right now.

Then again, maybe not. Pinstripe suits are back. Gold watches, too. And like those baller statements, the signet ring is for everyone these days, whether you have a hedge fund and a family crest or not.

Signet rings, however, are much easier to wear than most pieces. You don’t have to be landed gentry to slip one on. Nor do you need access to an Italian fashion fortune. Our expert guide to signet rings proves that any man can pull it off.