As a new or aspiring Freemason, you may be wondering when you can start wearing a Masonic ring. The rules around wearing Masonic rings vary across different lodges and jurisdictions, but there are some general guidelines to follow.
Requirements for Wearing a Masonic Ring
In most cases, you must meet the following requirements before you can wear a Masonic ring:
- You must be a Master Mason – This means you have received the third degree within Freemasonry. The first three degrees are Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason.
- Your dues must be paid up to date – You must be an active member in good standing with your lodge.
- You should have your lodge’s permission – Some lodges require Masons to obtain approval before wearing a ring.
In addition, there are protocols around which hand and finger you wear your ring on. In general, Masonic rings are worn on the third finger of the right hand. The right side indicates activity and giving while the left side is receptive and receiving. The third finger is believed to have a connection to the heart through the vena amoris or “vein of love.”
Newly Raised Master Masons
Once you have completed the three degrees and become a Master Mason, you may be wondering when you can start wearing your ring. There is often some variability here across lodges.
Some lodges will present new Master Masons with their rings shortly after being raised to the third degree. In other lodges, there may be a waiting period before you can wear regalia like rings publically. This waiting period is sometimes called a time of “rough ashlar” and may last anywhere from a few months to a full calendar year.
The intent behind a waiting period is typically to give new members time to gain suitable experience and knowledge before visibly identifying as a Freemason in public. So it’s advisable to consult your lodge leadership about expectations around wearing a Masonic ring right away.
Masonic Etiquette for Wearing Rings
Once you meet the requirements to wear a Masonic ring, you’ll want to follow proper etiquette. Here are some key etiquette rules to keep in mind:
- Only wear one Masonic ring at a time – Choose the ring most meaningful to you.
- Wait until after your initiation to start wearing your ring.
- Remove your ring when entering a Masonic funeral procession as a sign of mourning.
- Take off your ring when shaking hands with another Mason.
- Remove your ring when using the restroom to maintain dignity and cleanliness.
- Follow your Grand Lodge’s guidance on wearing of jewelry if visiting another jurisdiction.
In general, your ring should always be worn with pride and dignity, serving as a visible reminder of your Masonic commitments and principles.
Types of Masonic Rings
There are several common types of Masonic rings, with some differences based on your individual rank and role:
- Blue Lodge Rings – For Master Masons in a Blue Lodge, the most common ring is the Blue Lodge ring. This has the Masonic square and compasses symbol.
- Past Master Rings – Past Masters who have served as Worshipful Master of a lodge may wear a Past Master ring. This ring features the Compass and Sun symbol.
- Scottish Rite Rings – For members of the Scottish Rite, double-headed eagle rings represent the 32nd degree.
- Shrine Rings – Members of the Shriners may wear rings with the Shrine emblem or a scimitar.
- York Rite Rings – York Rite rings feature symbols like the Triple Tau for Royal Arch Masons.
Rings can be customized with stones and symbols meaningful to the individual. But there are some rules around proper embellishments based on one’s degree and rank.
Putting On Your First Masonic Ring
Your first Masonic ring is meaningful as it marks your identity and commitment as a Mason. Here are some tips for putting on your ring for the first time:
- Have a knowledgeable Mason inspect your ring to ensure proper fit and orientation before wearing.
- Consider having a small ceremony at your lodge where veteran Masons can guide you in wearing the ring properly.
- Kiss the ring as you put it on to remind yourself of the brotherly love it represents.
- Wear your ring with humility rather than ostentatiously.
- Shake hands with your brothers to transfer their energy into the ring.
However you choose to wear your first ring, let it serve as a physical reminder of your sacred vows and Masonic bonds. The meaning behind your ring grows with time and experience.
Purchasing a Masonic Ring
Masonic rings can be purchased online through distributors like Macoy or speak with your local Masonic lodge about ring providers they recommend. You’ll want to ensure your ring meets the standards of your jurisdiction.
Factors to consider in purchasing a Masonic ring include:
- Material – Gold, silver, stainless steel and titanium are common. Softer metals show wear over time.
- Band width – Wider bands are more masculine. Consider fit and comfort.
- Embellishments – Some lodges limit stones and symbols used based on degrees.
- Finger size – Measure carefully to get proper fit.
- Cost – Prices range from $100 into the thousands based on materials used.
Take time to select a ring that fits your budget and reflects your personal style. Consider passing down grandfathered rings through generations if possible.
Conclusion
Wearing a Masonic ring is an honor and privilege. As a newly raised Master Mason, be sure to consult your lodge leadership before donning a ring publicly. Follow proper etiquette, select a distinctive ring, and wear it with dignity. Let your Masonic ring serve as a physical reminder of your sacred bonds and enlightened principles.