Traditional Signet Shape
Our Oxford Oval Signet Rings
Worn by famous public figures, including King Charles III, Frank Sinatra, Winston Churchill, and Steve McQueen, the oval signet ring — also known as the Oxford signet — is traditionally made from 18ct yellow gold. Handcrafted from 100% recycled precious metals, our Oxford signet combines traditional craftsmanship with ethical design. Each signet is hallmarked by the London Assay Office and delivered in a wooden presentation box — the perfect gift or keepsake.
With laser-engraved precision for sharper detail, durability, and fast turnaround (just 7 days), or optional hand engraving for timeless charm, your design is always approved before we engrave. Enjoy complimentary UK delivery and free resizing within 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions: The Oxford Oval
Everything you need to know about our engraving styles, precious metals, sizing, and delivery times.
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We offer two distinct finishes to personalise your signet ring:
Laser Engraving: Uses modern technology for a sharp, precise, and consistent finish. It is ideal for intricate family crests or complex monograms.
Hand Engraving: The traditional method for personalising a signet. A hand-engraver carves the metal by hand, creating a deeper, three-dimensional finish.
Unsure which is right for you? Read our guide for more information on the pros and cons of each approach, from he final finish to the cost.
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Yes, absolutely. We understand how important the details are. Once you place your order, our design team will prepare a digital proof for you to review. We will never begin engraving until we have your explicit approval, ensuring the final design is exactly as you envisioned.
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Dispatch times vary depending on whether you are ordering a blank signet ring or choosing a personalisation method:
Plain (Non-engraved) Signets: Typically dispatched within 3 working days.
Laser Engraved Signets: Please allow up to 7 working days for our team to engrave and quality check your ring.
Hand-Engraved Signets: Please allow up to 15 working days from the date your order is placed for our craftsmen to finish your piece.
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When we describe our signet rings as "heavyweight," we are referring to their solid construction. Unlike many standard rings on the market—which are often hollowed out behind the face to save on gold—our signet rings are crafted from solid metal throughout.
We insist on this substantial thickness to ensure your ring is durable enough to become a family heirloom. Crucially, this solid head provides the deep, dense canvas required for our high-quality engraving without compromising the ring's integrity.
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The "best" choice depends on your lifestyle and your preference for color versus durability.
9ct Gold (The Practical Choice): Containing 37.5% pure gold, 9ct is mixed with harder alloy metals. This makes it significantly tougher and more resistant to scratches and dents, making it the ideal choice for a ring worn every day or during manual work. It has a lighter, subtle yellow tone.
18ct Gold (The Luxury Choice): Containing 75% pure gold, 18ct is softer and more malleable. While it requires a bit more care to avoid surface marks, it has a much higher intrinsic value and a classic, rich, deep yellow colour associated with traditional heirlooms.
Need help deciding? Read our full guide on choosing the best metal to suit your lifestyle.
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The Oxford Oval is the most traditional and historically enduring signet shape, favoured by figures ranging from King Charles III to Winston Churchill. Its symmetrical 13mm x 11mm face (approx.) offers the perfect balance—large enough to display a family crest clearly, yet discreet enough for daily wear. If you are looking for the definitive "gentleman's ring," this is the standard.
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It depends on whether you want the ring to be functional or purely visual.
Seal Engraving (Traditional) Also known as "intaglio," this is a deep, 3D carving technique. The design is cut in reverse (mirror image). While it looks backwards on your finger, it creates a perfect, raised impression when stamped into sealing wax. This is the classic choice for family heirlooms.
Surface Engraving (Visual) The design is engraved forwards so it looks correct on your finger. It is generally shallower than seal engraving. This is the preferred choice if you are not interested in using wax seals and simply want the design to be admired by others.
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We want your Oxford Oval to feel perfect. We offer complimentary resizing within 30 days of your purchase. Simply contact our team, and we will adjust the size to ensure a comfortable, custom fit.
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From engraving styles and design techniques to materials and finishes, discover everything you need to create a ring that’s uniquely yours.