You don’t need me to tell you that jewellery is expressive, but if you’re looking for something that spells out exactly how you feel, there’s nothing like a word or nameplate ring.
No deciphering birth stones or the zodiac here: rings stamped, engraved or designed around a certain word, one that means something to you, say it all.
There are lots of different word rings, with some simply spelling out the name of a cherished family member (think Mum, Dad, Nan, etc), while others go down the playful avenue, tapping into zeitgeisty moments, moods and current trends.
I own several of these silly rings, all purchased from a jewellery brand called Snash, based in New York. They come in brass or silver, and while the street-style offering is, naturally, very American-leaning, I’ve found plenty of gems to spice up my finger stack. The one thing they have in common? Every one of them receives compliments when I wear them out.
Of course, not all wordy rings have to be gobby. Sentimental ones are perfect for gifting for your favourite family members, while others offer designs stamped with affirmations to keep you strong and motivated every time you glance down at your hands.
Some jewellers can engrave a favourite song lyric or line of poetry into the ring bands, making for an incredibly special token to offer someone you love.
Whether you choose a costume jewellery piece or something far more heartfelt, your new arrival is bound to shake up your finger stack.
Find the best rings with words below - shop now
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Snash Jewelry Disco Ring
Based in NYC, Snash has such a breadth of nameplate ring options that you can lose hours browsing the entire hand-carved collection. If you love disco, I’ll save you the hassle and point you straight towards the ring that says it best.
It comes in cool silver or a gold-like brass, although you can get it in 10kt and 14kt yellow gold if you’re prepared to invest.
Work out your sizing carefully - mine is too small to go on anything other than my pinkie, so I wear it like a signet ring instead. The silver lining? It leaves other digits free for additional adornment.
For people who don’t mind a little label.
Buy now £59.43, Etsy
Maria Black Sis 22ct yellow gold-plated sterling silver ring
From Danish-Irish designer Maria Black comes a range of jewellery inspired by special life moments. There are rings for mums, dads and sisters, the latter of which you can gift to friends who are more like family.
Buy now £138.00, Selfridges
Missoma Engravable Heart Signet Ring
Missoma has an ever-growing selection of jewellery that you can give a personal touch through engraving. This spans necklaces, bracelets and rings. This heart signet ring caught our eye as a romantic way to pay homage to your loved one. You can embellish it with the initial of your choosing and it comes in 18ct recycled gold plated vermeil on recycled sterling silver.
Buy now £85.00, Missoma
Bohomoon Year Ring
Clearly designed for late Millennials and Gen Z, but there’s no reason why older admirers can’t wear one of these year rings. Spanning 1990 - 2005, pick your favourite year and prepare to reminisce.
Buy now £30.00, Bohomoon
Synergy Jewellery Affirmation Stacking Ring
Harnessing the power of a word, this stacking ring can be engraved with any motivating or encouraging word. The design comes in a range of finishes and sizes, so you can have your new jewellery piece made exactly as you like it.
One five-star reviewer said: “I bought this for my daughter who has had a difficult time over the last few months. I bought the courage ring. She loves it.”
Buy now £19.49, NOTHS
Morgan & French The Aura Personalised Silver Ring
Take romance to the next level with The Aura ring, which can be personalised with the song lyrics, poetry or heartfelt words of your choice. You can even add secret engraving inside the ring for their eyes only for a small extra fee.
Buy now £135.00, NOTHS
Regal Rose TILL DEATH. Promise Signet Ring - Gold
With Gothic leanings and botanical engravings, this signet ring makes a lovely gift for your S.O, whether you’re celebrating your first anniversary or 40th.
A range of sizes is available.
Buy now £72.00, Regal Rose
Theo Grace Script Double Name Ring in 18ct Gold Plating
Whether it’s you and your partner, the names of your children or pets, or your best pals, bring up to three names together with this 18ct gold plated ring from Theo Grace.
It comes in three other finishes (925 sterling silver, 18ct rose gold plated or 18ct gold vermeil) with a timeless script font that will keep it in your jewellery rotation for years to come.
Want to take it up a notch? You can throw in a diamond for an extra fee.
Buy now £85.00, Theo Grace
