As tradition dictates, the late pontiff’s signet ring will be destroyed — or defaced, at least — within the walls of the Vatican following his death on Easter Monday.

Following Pope Francis's passing, the Vatican is abuzz as cardinals gather to elect his successor. The conclave, a secretive ...

This role as a seal was replaced by a stamp in the 19th ... Pope Francis chose a gilded silver signet ring, made from a jewel that belonged to Archbishop Pasquale Macchi, secretary to Pope Paul ...

It represents the Pope's delegated authority as successor to St. Peter, the first Pope, and a constant reminder of the Church's mission to "fish for souls". The ring is a signet ring, historically ...

During his first public mass at St Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV received the Fisherman’s Ring as the continuation of a unique jewellery tradition. The Fisherman’s Ring is a signet ring worn by the ...

Engraved on its oblong, flat surface is an unidentified symbol, which resembles two asterisk marks. It could be the mark of a ...

Now, as tradition dictates, the late pontiff’s signet ring will be destroyed — or defaced ... the bulla traditionally served as official seals for official letters and documents known as ...

Photo from the Wawel Royal Castle Centuries ago, signet rings were worn by numerous individuals ... they could be used to produce a unique seal, meant to indicate the identity of the owner.