signet

n. [ OF. signet a signet, F., a bookmark, dim. of signe. See Sign, n., and cf. Sennet. ] A seal; especially, in England, the seal used by the sovereign in sealing private letters and grants that pass by bill under the sign manual; -- called also privy signet. [ 1913 Webster ]

I had my father's signet in my purse. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

Signet ring, a ring containing a signet or private seal. --
Writer to the signet (Scots Law), a judicial officer who prepares warrants, writs, etc.; originally, a clerk in the office of the secretary of state. [ 1913 Webster ]