A Mason ring is a ring worn by Freemasons to signify membership in the Freemasonry fraternal organization. Freemasonry, also known as Masonry, is a fraternal organization that grew out of stonemasonry guilds during the Middle Ages. Freemasonry uses the metaphor of stonemasonry as allegory to impart moral and ethical lessons of service, brotherhood, and character-building. Wearing a Mason ring signifies that the wearer is a Freemason in good standing with their Masonic lodge.
The most commonly recognized Mason ring is the Blue Lodge ring, which is given to Master Masons after they complete the 3rd degree. The Blue Lodge is the foundational level of Freemasonry, where members receive the first three Masonic degrees. After being initiated, passed to the degree of Fellowcraft, and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, members become eligible to receive a Blue Lodge ring.
The ring serves as an outward symbol of their dedication to Masonic ideals and achievement within the fraternity. The ring reminds the wearer of their commitments while also allowing other Masons to recognize them. This helps facilitate mutual understanding and assistance between Masonic brothers. Beyond identifying the wearer as a Master Mason, the ring has deep symbolic meaning about life, death, and rebirth.
Requirements for Receiving a Mason Ring
There are a few requirements that must be met before being eligible to receive a Mason ring:
| Requirement | Description |
| Regular Masonic Membership | Candidates must be Master Masons in good standing with a regular Masonic lodge recognized by the Grand Lodge. This requires having completed the three degrees of the Blue Lodge. |
| Dues Paid | The Mason must be up-to-date on their Masonic dues to maintain active membership. |
| Time Requirement | Most lodges require candidates to wait a period of time after being raised to Master Mason before being eligible to receive the ring. This may range from a mandatory waiting period of months or years. |
| Lodge Approval | The lodge leadership must approve a candidate’s petition to receive the Mason ring. |
| Ritual/Ceremony | Once approved, the member will participate in a ring ceremony where the symbolism and meaning of the ring is explained. |
The requirements ensure that only committed, active Master Masons receive a Blue Lodge ring. Earning the right to wear a Masonic ring shows dedication to Masonic principles and advancement through the fraternity.
Symbolic Meaning of Mason Rings
Mason rings contain a variety of design elements that hold symbolic meaning:
The Square and Compasses – The main emblem found on Blue Lodge rings is the square and compasses, the most identifiable symbol of Freemasonry. The square represents morality, truthfulness, and honesty. The compass represents the spirit of goodwill, restraint, and justice. Together, the square and compasses convey the central tenets of Masonic morality.
G – Most rings feature the letter “G” which stands for both God and Geometry. For Masons, God is the Supreme Being and Geometry is a symbol of the pursuit of truth.
“Forget Me Not” – Some rings have the forget-me-not flower between the points of the compass, which reminds Masons to remember their responsibilities and care for their brothers.
The All-Seeing Eye – This symbol represents the watchful presence of God observing all thoughts and deeds.
Clasped Hands – Depicting a handshake, this illustrates the Masonic greeting of brotherly love, relief, and truth.
Setting Maul and Stone Hammer – Tools used in stonemasonry that represent labor and integrity.
Pillars – Represent the two great pillars of Solomon’s Temple called Boaz and Jachin found at the entrance.
These symbols reflect key teachings, virtues, and ideals that Freemasons are expected to incorporate into their lives and characters. Wearing the ring serves as a reminder to live up to the principles it represents.
Materials and Designs of Masonic Rings
While Mason rings share common symbolic elements, they can vary in the specific materials and designs:
Metals
– Gold – Most traditional, especially yellow or white gold.
– Silver – Less expensive, silver color matches white gold.
– Stainless Steel – Most affordable option.
Gemstones
– Blue Sapphire – Most popular, represents the initiation ritual color blue.
– Diamond – Reflective of the brilliant virtues of Masonry.
– Onyx – Represents equilibrium between life and death.
Stylistic Choices
– High Polish – Mirror finish adds luster.
– Brushed Matte – Understated, mellowed effect.
– Two-Tone – Mixing metals creates contrast.
– Etchings – Symbolic designs etched into sides.
– Custom Details – Special inscriptions, dates, etc.
There are also variations based on Masonic degree, so the styling visually communicates the wearer’s rank. While many choose traditional designs, the range of options allows Masons to find a ring tailored to personal taste.
How Non-Masons Recognize Mason Rings
For Freemasons, the Masonic ring is easily identifiable even at a glance based on the unique square and compass symbol with the letter G. However, those unfamiliar with Freemasonry may not recognize the meaning behind Masonic rings. Here are some tips for non-Masons to identify Mason rings:
– Look for the square and compass symbol – This is the central identifying marker of a Mason ring, often featured prominently.
– Note the use of the letter “G” – Within the square and compass design, or featured elsewhere on the ring, the letter “G” is a quick giveaway.
– Study ring designs for related symbols – The all-seeing eye, pillars, forget-me-nots, and Masonic tools like mauls and trowels all indicate Masonic meaning.
– Observe ring location – Mason rings are often worn on the right hand instead of the left, on the ring finger or pinky finger. The maker’s mark inside the band may also say “Mason” or “Blue Lodge.”
– Consider if the wearer is male – Freemasonry traditionally only admitted men as regular members, so a Mason ring will almost always be worn by a man.
– Look for additional Masonic accessories – Masonic cufflinks, lapel pins, neckties, or car decals may accompany the ring.
With an observant eye and a little background knowledge, even non-members can spot the significance of a Masonic ring.
What Wearing a Mason Ring Means to Freemasons
For Freemasons, wearing a Masonic ring carries deep meaning. Beyond a piece of jewelry, the Masonic ring represents:
– A badge of honor that marks milestone achievement. Masons wear it with pride as a tangible reminder of the hard work completed to attain the status of Master Mason.
– An emblem of belonging to one of the world’s oldest fraternal orders. The ring connects Masons to centuries of tradition and a global brotherhood.
– A public display of their Masonic identity. Rings prompt fellowship, mutual aid, and new connections with other Masons.
– An external reminder to hold fast to Masonic teachings. The symbols imprinted on the ring serve as visible moral and ethical guidance.
– A memento of the impact Masonic initiation had on them. It takes their mind back to those transformative experiences and lessons.
– A memorial to all those who came before them in their home lodge. The ring bonds them to past and future generations of local Masons.
For Masons worldwide, the simple act of putting on a Mason ring each day carries a profound weight of fellowship, morality, and remembrance.
Conclusion
In summary, a Masonic ring signifies much more than just jewelry or ornamentation. For Freemasons, wearing a ring is a badge of honor and belonging that reminds them of their vows, values, and the lasting impact Masonic initiation had on them. The iconic square and compass symbol makes Masonic rings instantly recognizable, even to non-Masons. While requirements must be met to earn the right to wear one, the ring then serves as an outward sign of inner growth for the rest of a Mason’s life. More than a piece of jewelry, the Mason ring is a constant physical reminder to live up to the high moral standards and spiritual lessons of Freemasonry.
