It’s not all about the snob value! – These rings are worn by old school aristocracy, true, but more often than not its ordinary folk, people from regular backgrounds celebrating their lineage - and that doesn’t mean a noble bloodline back to the 14th century! It can just mean wearing something attractive that represents your identity, parents or grandparents.
If you like the look of a crest ring and fancy making a purchase there are differences / important faux pas to avoid:
These rings depict crests. The crest is part of a coat of arms - the wearing of the crest, seal engraved on a ring, is traditionally associated with English, Scottish, and Welsh families. Often, but not always, the ring is worn on the little finger.
These rings show the full coat of arms. These more elaborate designs are traditionally worn by continental European families, requiring a bigger signet ring head and as such worn on the ring finger as opposed to the little finger. Also have become v. popular with Americans!
Coats of arms and crests are awarded to individuals - their descendants are ‘entitled’ to ‘bear’ these arms. So if you are looking to have a signet ring engraved with a crest, unless you are sure of your lineage, its best to go for the oldest registered crest of that particular name. The crest you choose may not be your crest in the true sense - but one that has become associated with your family name and has come to represent that name over time. Of course the crest you choose may just be one you like the look of or that has some other resonance with you. Some names are represented by dozens of different crests, some relevant to specific individuals some associated with different areas. A good herald or crest ring supplier will be able to advise you; referring to publications such as ‘Fairbairn’s Book of Crests’ or ‘Burkes General Armoury’. If they are not familiar with these publications you should seek advice elsewhere.
With Scottish clan rings the heraldry is much more straight forward: anyone with that clan name or a name associated with that clan is entitled to bear the clan badge. Usually one clan badge for every name (with one or two exceptions). The clan badge is the crest surrounded by a belt and garter which bears the clan motto.
In short there is no heraldry police that will arrest you for wearing the wrong ring, but it’s always good to make an informed choice – whether that is a seal engraved ring that depicts your family crest or represents your family or just a design you happen to like! :)