Cross Jewelers – Crest Rings & Coat of Arms

Finger size of the recipient is most accurately obtained when we can measure the recipient’s finger. If the recipient lives out of state, the ring finger can be measured by their local jeweler.

The Elements of a Coat of Arms

CREST – The symbol or figure affixed to the top of the helmet. This shows the wearers family and served as a gathering point for his followers during battle.

SUPPORTERS – The human or animal figures which hold up the shield of an artists painting of the coat of arms (not shown).

HELM – The helmet on which the crest rests. This varies according to the rank of the wearer. Caps, called CHAPEAUX, were used for non-military social rank men, such as churchmen.

SHIELD –?The heart of the coat of arms which portrays the individual. It must abide by the rules of heraldry and shows, through several divisions, the close family of the wearer.

MANTLE –?The cloak worn to protect against the sun. Artists often show the mantle with many slashes in it which displays that the wearer had fought in many battles.

MOTTO?–?Usually a ribbon at the bottom which is used by the entire family (not all Coat of Arms have a motto).

Coat of Arms Engraving –?The original purpose of a Coat of Arms signet was to create an impression in wax for seals on official documents. In keeping with this tradition, all coat of arms are engraved intaglio style, cut in reverse to seal (unless otherwise requested). In this method, the engraving is cut into the signet in reverse, in order to produce a readable wax seal.

Engraving may also be ordered straight up to read which produces a seal that is readable on the ring, but can not be used as a seal. If a motto is to be included, it is important to discuss at the time of ordering whether the motto will be for reading or sealing. Tradition always suggests in reverse for sealing.

The History of the Coat of Arms

Since time began, man has used symbols for communication. Early man used cave drawings. The Chinese used chops. Often these symbols were used for identification of an individual or a tribe. Over time, the style and design of these symbols were refined to become Coat of Arms as we know them today.

The development of the Coat of Arms dates back many centuries. In the Middle Ages, when a warrior or knight went to war or jousted in tournaments, his identity was often concealed by armor. In those times, a knight’s shield and weapons were his most important possessions. In order that each knight be identified from his fellow warriors, he would decorate his helmet, shield and breast plate with patterns, signs, and emblems. The cloak or surcoat worn over his suit of armor was also decorated in the same manner, giving way to the name “Coat of Arms.” These decorations, or Coat of Arms, became a traditional part of a family’s identity and were passed on with pride to each succeeding generation. The Coat of Arms was also used to identify family belongings. The seals of wax made from wood or metal engraved with the Coat of Arms were attached to correspondence and documents identifying the sender. As time passed, warfare changed and warriors shed their armor in favor of more suitable clothing, however, the tradition of bearing Coats of Arms continues to this day with the use of seals on certain types of correspondence. Today, State seals consist of Coats of Arms indicating a mark of high office.

To many, the modern interpretation of the Coat of Arms is the signet ring engraved with the wearer’s initials. Whether you prefer a traditional Coat of Arms, initials, or an engraving of your profession or favorite past time, you will appreciate the fine quality of Cross’ signet rings. Each piece is individually hand engraved in the time honored tradition of excellence to provide you with fine jewelry destined to be an heirloom.

Cross signets are die struck, not cast. This means they are forged by precise steel dies compressing the gold to its exact shape then finished by hand. This process, used by only the finest jewelers, creates a stronger piece that enables the engraver to produce a sharp, clean image.

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Cross Jewelers - Portland, Maine