However, there's one academic tradition that requires zero in-person participation: the class ring — and it's one of 's biggest jewelry trends. This piece of jewelry is not only on trend thanks to the rise of chunkier ring silhouettes, but it holds a deeper sentimental value for the wearer. According to jewelry journalist and author Beth Bernstein , what makes the trend unique is that it's highly customizable with variety based on "the school, the date of graduation, a gem center, and the name of the graduating person.
But, as younger, more mainstream brands begin to embrace the trend in their own modern ways, it's important to understand how the piece's rich history led to its place in the modern trend cycle. Bernstein explains that class rings can be traced back to the year But even with the decline in sales and demand for the class rings, the emotional significance of the rings remains an important and a big part of colleges across America, which is why in some parts of the country, especially the South, the traditional class ring still holds a big and an important part of the traditions that make up their colleges.
This huge divide is expected to continue growing, especially where Gen Z is involved, because this generation could care less for a college class ring. The intentions to buy the best of class rings might still be there, but not as many people are buying this accessory anymore.
And for the graduating classes, there seems to be an increased demand for the best commemorative jewelry like bracelets, lockets, pendants, and necklaces over the contemporary rings. However, more elegant and classy rings like the signet rings have grown in popularity, meaning that graduates are choosing to wear more elegant ring options to commemorate their graduations.
That said, there still is a big percentage of colleges, high schools, and students that hold the class ring traditions dearly, and for these individuals, the rings are an important part of their lives, so they keep them on.
What this means is that although not everyone is into class rings, these rings are no longer the most popular option for graduating students, whether in college or high school. Yale or Harvard graduates would, however, still be seen wearing their class rings decades later. Well, it depends on the school, but an increasing number of students Gen Z are abandoning the idea of college class rings, especially because the class rings are seen as a way of putting more money into the colleges. Are college class rings worth your money?
I bought my high school ring and wore it until my finger became too big for it. It is a size 4 and my bones are bigger than that now. I did not buy a college ring because I wanted real diamonds and I could not afford it. I would probably not wear my HS ring now even if it fit because it is yellow gold and I only wear white gold and silver now—to match my hair.
I guess it just depends on the high school. Everyone wore them in my H. Wish I had it. I told my parents I lost it because my aunts bought it for me. My kids rarely ever wear jewelry and were never interested. Generally, I rarely ever see class rings worn around the crowd I hang out with and my extended family.
Not really a big thing here in my neck of the woods. I bought one in HS and it did come in useful when my finger was slammed in a VW van sliding door. Bent the ring, though. I think it really depends. I really love it. I went to a different prep school and my ring has the school seal and motto, all backwards so you can use it with sealing wax. I had no desire to get a college ring, but my nephew got one for Rice. High school ring - absolutely no interest from me, husband or any of our kids full disclosure - my kids were homeschooled but they do sell a home school high school ring.
For several years, class rings were created with uniform design and shaped for a particular school. As time passed, some institutions provided the students with the option of customization. Traditional class rings were made in gold, but now they can be ordered in various metals including silver, gold, or platinum. Gold rings with a satin finish will show the entire piece in gold with cuts to highlight the names and design.
Rings with antique finishes use a black enamel to highlight the details; higher-end rings are often made in platinum. The stone used on the ring will be of the same color for all the students of a particular school.
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