Hi Petryk,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

In the 14th century, a signet ring was primarily used as a personal seal to authenticate documents. The ring typically bore a unique symbol, family crest, or coat of arms carved into the surface, often in reverse, so it would leave an impression when pressed into hot wax or softened clay. This impression served as a mark of identification and approval from the ring's owner, acting as a signature for legal documents, letters, and other formal communications.

Since literacy was limited and signatures weren't widely used, the signet ring provided a secure way to prevent forgeries and verify the origin of important documents. Because they were so closely tied to identity and authority, signet rings were often owned by nobility, clergy, and wealthy merchants and could be passed down through generations.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique 14th Century Middle Eastern silver signet ring
Of typical signet ring form, the head/face recessed with raised reversed script
6.34 grams; 19 x 20 mm
CONDITION: Small loss to rim of face.
PROVENANCE: Acquired in the 1960s, thence by inheritance
$ 500-700*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia