A Masonic ring is a ring worn by Freemasons to signify membership in the organization and fraternal brotherhood. Only Master Masons are allowed to wear a Masonic ring, as it is a symbol of being a Master Mason. There are strict rules and protocols around the wearing of Masonic rings, as they represent connection to Freemasonry.
Requirements for Wearing a Masonic Ring
For a Freemason to be able to wear a Masonic ring, he must meet certain requirements:
- He must have completed the three degrees of Freemasonry and be a Master Mason. The three degrees are Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason.
- He must be in good standing with his Masonic lodge and not suspended or expelled.
- Traditionally, he must have taken his Master Mason proficiency exam and proved competent knowledge of Masonic rituals and information.
- He must have paid all financial dues to his Masonic lodge.
- He must follow all Masonic rules and obligations and conduct himself accordingly.
A man cannot wear a Masonic ring until he has met these criteria. Wearing the square and compasses symbol on a ring signifies the achievement of Master Mason status, so this privilege is reserved for those who have earned the distinction.
Types of Masonic Rings
There are a few common types of Masonic rings:
- Square and Compasses Ring – This ring features the main Masonic symbol of the square and compasses, sometimes with a “G” in the center. It is the most common Masonic ring.
- Blue Lodge Ring – Rings representing the Symbolic Lodge, or Blue Lodge, the foundation level of Freemasonry.
- Past Master Ring – Rings worn by those who have served as Worshipful Master of their Masonic lodges.
- Scottish Rite Ring – Rings representing the Scottish Rite branch of Freemasonry.
- Shrine Ring – Rings with a scimitar or crescent moon symbol, representing the Shriners.
There are variations and personalizations possible with Masonic rings, but they generally fit within these common types. The specific meaning and privileges come from the Masonic symbolism represented on the ring.
Who Can Wear What Type of Ring
The rules dictate who can wear the different types of Masonic rings:
- Any Master Mason can wear a square and compasses ring, Blue Lodge ring, or ring representing degrees he has attained in other Masonic bodies.
- Past Masters can wear rings indicating their service as Worshipful Masters of their lodges.
- Only members of the Scottish Rite can wear Scottish Rite rings.
- Only members of the Shriners can wear Shrine rings with scimitar or crescent moon symbols.
Appropriate square and compasses rings are the most universally allowable, while others are reserved for members of specific bodies and stations. There are also rules about how to properly wear and display Masonic rings.
Rules for Wearing Masonic Rings
Masons must follow rules and protocol for wearing Masonic rings, including:
- Only worn on the dominant hand, usually the right.
- Worn with the compasses points toward the fingertips and the square points toward the wrist.
- The emblem should be outward facing to others.
- One ring per hand is customary.
- Rings must be worn with dignity and decorum to reflect well on Freemasonry.
These etiquette rules govern how members display their Masonic rings with proper care and respect.
Consequences for Incorrectly Wearing a Masonic Ring
There can be consequences for wearing a Masonic ring incorrectly or without permission:
- Bringing disrepute on Freemasonry
- Suspension or expulsion from the fraternity
- Prosecution for fraud in certain jurisdictions
- Social stigma within the Masonic community
Due to the regulations around Masonic rings, misuse or false representation can result in penalties. Any legal repercussions would depend on the severity of the situation.
Signet Masonic Rings
In addition to emblem rings, some Masons will wear signet Masonic rings with customized seals and designs:
- May contain Masonic imagery and symbols
- Intended for sealing wax impressions
- Usually only Presiding Officers or Grand Lodge leadership
- Worn on the little finger or opposite hand
Signet rings follow separate protocols and are reserved for certain elite members in positions of authority.
Non-Masons Wearing Masonic Rings
For non-Masons, wearing a Masonic ring is prohibited in certain jurisdictions. Rules include:
- Non-Masons cannot wear rings for fraudulent purposes.
- Women and children can wear emblem jewelry for ornamental purposes in some areas.
- Heirs may wear a relative’s ring out of memory but should not represent themselves as Masons.
- Sellers, collectors, and appraisers may handle Masonic rings as artifacts.
The regulations aim to prevent misrepresentation and misuse of Masonic emblems by non-members. Motivation and context determine what is allowable.
Conclusion
Masonic rings represent a fraternal bond and the achievements of Freemasons who have completed certain degrees and rites. Because of the symbolism and privileges they impart, there are strict rules for who can wear the different types of Masonic rings and how they must be displayed. Only Master Masons in good standing are authorized to wear emblem rings representing the brotherhood and their specific Masonic bodies.
