Freemasonry is a centuries-old fraternal organization that uses symbols and metaphors from architecture and building to convey moral and ethical lessons. Members meet at lodges to share rituals and ceremonies that use builder’s tools and techniques as symbols to teach these lessons. One common symbol of Freemasonry is the Masonic ring.
Significance of Masonic Rings
Masonic rings are worn by Freemasons to signify membership in the organization and as a reminder of their commitment to Masonic principles and values. The symbols on these rings hold deep meaning for the wearer and other Masons who recognize their significance.
The most common symbol on Masonic rings is the Square and Compasses, the main logo of Freemasonry. This depicts the tools used by stonemasons to create structure and order. In Masonic symbolism, the square represents morality and the compasses represent spirituality – two ideals that Masons strive to integrate into their lives.
Other symbols frequently seen on Masonic rings include:
- The letter “G” – Represents “God” or the “Great Architect of the Universe,” a metaphor for deity.
- All-Seeing Eye – Symbolizes watchfulness and the presence of the Supreme Being.
- Sun, moon, stars – References to Light and Darkness, symbolic opposites.
- Clasped hands – Depicts the fraternal bond between Masonic brothers.
The specific design and symbols on a Masonic ring indicate the wearer’s Masonic affiliations and achievements. The rings serve as an outward sign of their commitment and help Masons recognize each other.
Which Finger to Wear a Masonic Ring
The rules on which finger to wear a Masonic ring are loosely defined and can vary between Masonic lodges and grand lodges around the world. However, there are some generally accepted guidelines.
Most often, Freemasons wear their rings on the ring finger of the right hand. This is the fourth finger from the thumb, between the middle and pinky finger. Wearing the Masonic ring on the right hand ring finger is widespread practice and aligns with traditional ring meanings:
- The left hand is associated with engagement and marriage.
- The right hand is associated with friendship, affiliation, and oaths.
Since Freemasonry involves taking oaths of loyalty with the fraternity, wearing the Masonic ring on the right hand ring finger is appropriate. It signifies the oaths and allegiances sworn to the Masonic craft and brethren.
Other Fingers
Some variations are seen in which finger Masons wear their rings on:
- Right middle finger – This is common in Europe where the right hand ring finger is reserved for wedding bands.
- Left middle finger – This is rare but seen among some American Masons.
- Left pinky finger – Also fairly uncommon today but has some historical precedence.
Ultimately, it’s up to the personal preference of each Mason, though wearing it on the right hand ring finger is the most widely adopted practice.
Multiple Masonic Rings
Masons progress through various degrees with different rituals and lessons associated with each degree. When Masons reach a new degree, they may receive a ring symbolizing that degree. A Freemason may therefore accumulate multiple Masonic rings over the course of advancement through the fraternity.
The rules for wearing multiple Masonic rings are:
- Each ring must be worn on a different finger.
- The order of the fingers should follow the order of the degrees.
Therefore, the first Masonic ring received should be worn on the right hand ring finger. Any subsequent rings received for higher degrees should be worn outward on adjacent fingers in order of the degrees.
For example, if a Mason has rings for the 3rd and 4th degrees, the 3rd degree ring would go on the right middle finger and the 4th degree on the right index finger.
Ring Materials and Designs
Masonic rings come in many different materials, styles, and designs. Some guidelines on Masonic ring materials and designs include:
- Materials: Gold, silver, stainless steel are common. Avoid cheaper metals like iron, steel, or aluminum.
- Stones: Masonic emblems instead of colored gemstones.
- Styles: Signet ring or flat band with Masonic emblem. Avoid ornate jewelry-style rings.
- Designs: Square and Compasses the most common emblem. Others include “G”, All-Seeing Eye, Tetragrammaton, etc.
The prescribed style is generally a simple band or signet ring with Masonic symbols that are meaningful to the wearer and recognized by the fraternity. The craft discourages expensive, gaudy, or jewelry-like adornments.
Distinctive Features of a Masonic Ring
While there is variety in Masonic rings, some distinctive features identify a ring as Masonic rather than a typical piece of jewelry:
- Masonic symbols like the Square and Compasses instead of colored gemstones.
- Worn on the right hand ring finger instead of the left.
- Simple band or signet ring style, not ornate jewelry.
- Subtle engraving of symbols on the interior band.
- Larger rings to accommodate other Masonic rings on adjacent fingers.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Symbols | Square and Compasses, “G”, All-Seeing Eye, etc. |
| Finger | Right hand ring finger most common |
| Style | Simple band or signet ring |
| Engraving | Subtle interior engraving |
| Size | Larger to fit multiple rings |
While Masonic rings must contain Masonic emblems, they avoid flashy gems and ornamentation in favor of symbolic meaning. Wearing the ring on the proper hand and finger as well as the overall subtle style makes them distinctive from regular jewelry.
Conclusion
Freemasons wear Masonic rings to demonstrate their membership and connection to Masonic principles and their lodge brothers. The right hand ring finger is the most common finger to wear the Masonic ring, though some variation exists. Masonic rings contain Masonic symbols rather than gemstones and have a simple, subtle style. While unique to the fraternity, these rings unite Freemasons across the world.
