Military Rings and What They Signify

Military Rings are worn by current and retired members of the military as a highly visible demonstration of their proud participation in a branch of service. Their appeal supersedes distinctions of rank,gender and age: military rings are worn by officers and enlisted personnel, men and women, and the young and old.

Every day, men and women in the military protect us and our freedom. The sacrifices they make during the course of their service - to their country and to us - are countless and sometimes extreme. We honor them for their service in the armed forces and for their selfless dedication. And they are justifiably proud of their efforts and military traditions. There is no better way for them to show their pride than a military ring -a visual symbol of their service that is typically is worn every single day. Military rings reflect their strength of character and their commitment to protect us all. In short, a military ring is a uniquely appropriate way to reflect a person's service in the armed forces, either past or present.

Military Rings Have Deeply Symbolic Designs.

There are three basic types of military rings. At least one of them would appeal to almost any member of the military.

1. One design that is frequently used is somewhat ornate, resembling a school ring or class ring. These types of military rings usually have a large semi-precious gem, crystal or colored stone set in the center. They also have several different emblems and insignia engraved partway down the sides of the band on each side of the central stone.

2. A second type of design is much different. A military ring of this type is a more streamlined ring with flowing, "clean" lines. This design sometimes consists solely of precious metal which has been engraved only at the top of the ring. Other times a semi-precious gem, crystal or other stone is set into the center. The sides of the band of this type of ring typically are not decorated, and the ring has a strong, masculine appearance.

3. The third type of military ring is similar to a traditional-type family signet ring or seal ring. But instead of a family seal or crest, this type of military ring utilizes military coats of arms or insignia as the "seal" at the top of the ring. There is no center gem or stone with this design.

Options for Military Rings.

Any of these three basic designs can incorporate one or more of the specific, highly symbolic heraldic-type crests, shields, coats-of-arms or insignia that are frequently used in the military. A military ring can be designed to reflect a person's service in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps or Coast Guard. Or it can demonstrate service in a specific division, regiment, battalion, fleet, or other discrete military or naval unit. Military rings can also be designed to show that a person served in the armed forces during a particular war or armed conflict: World War 2 rings, Korean War rings, Vietnam War rings and Operation Desert Storm rings are all examples of this type of military ring. Still other types of military rings incorporate the design of a specific combat medal or badge, or a specific rank insignia, into their design. Military rings even exist for ex-Prisoners of War. A military ring can be further personalized by engraving on the band the initials or name of the person wearing it.

They are usually made of precious metals such as gold, silver or platinum, and the engraving on high-quality pieces features intricate detail. If a military crest, coat of arms or other military heraldic device has been enhanced by being enameled, or if the center of the ring is inset with a colored gemstone, a military ring is quite striking. But no matter which design is used, a military ring signifies selfless service to us all.