Masonic Jewelry

Despite being the smallest branch of the armed forces in the Department of Defense, The United States Marine Corps is one of the most revered. Originally established during the Revolutionary War in 1775, the Marines have built a reputation for honor, courage, strength, integrity and, of course, loyalty. In fact, their motto, Semper Fidelis, means “always faithful.”

Today, there are roughly 250,000 active and reserve Marines. And while they may be small relative to other US military branches, each Marine maximizes efficiency. On average, it costs $20,000 less to fund the services of a Marine compared to soldiers in other branches; in addition, the Marines have the capability to organize both amphibious and expeditionary missions. Citizens show their support for the troops in myriad ways—from simply hanging an American flag to wearing Marine rings.

It’s always nice to feel like you’re a part of a group. One way to feel secure in your membership to a group is to wear matching items. These items may be clothes, but are more often jewelry. The Freemasons are one of those groups that use matching jewelry to strengthen the bonds between members.

For those who don’t know much about the Freemasons, they are a fraternal organization that arose during the 16th century. Today freemasonry exists throughout the world, with an estimated membership of about 5 million. A member of this semi-secret society may wear a Masonic ring bearing the square and compass insignia.

Amongst all the branches of the military, the Marines are without a doubt one of the fiercest and most proud.  Unlike other branches of the military that specialize in one area, Marines do it all.  Marines are the first branch of the military called upon when immediate action is necessary; they’re the first to enter conflict, and the last to leave.  Most people don’t have the physical or mental toughness to be a Marine; it takes extreme tenacity and dedication to both your body and mind.  There’s a reason the Marines are called the few and the proud, and that is because through their actions speak to their unique dedication to their country. 

Because of the shared experiences, Marines are also one of the most tightly knit branches of the military.  Marines share a special bond with other Marines that isn’t quite the same amongst soldiers in other branches of the military.  Marines often celebrate their bond with Marine rings which they wear in public; a symbol which creates an instant bond with other Marines who recognize it. 

I was very close to my uncle who spent the bulk of his adult like in the Marines.  One of my most vivid memories of him was when he would let me wear his ring, which proudly displayed the Marine bulldog, and I pretended to be him.

Last year, he when he passed away, his ring was nowhere to be found as my grandmother thought I should have it.  Instead, I found some Marine rings available online and purchased one that I felt would honor my uncle’s memory.