Have you recently started wearing a Masonic ring? Here are a few dos and don’ts you should know about:
Do wear your Masonic ring with pride.
A masonic ring such as a Knights Templar ring isn’t just a piece of jewelry—it is a symbol of the values and principles you hold dear as a member of the Freemason fraternity, and as a result, you should wear the ring with pride and respect.
The traditional way of wearing the ring is on your right hand, with the square and compass facing outward, but you don’t have to be limited to this, as there are plenty of other ways to wear it.
If you are married, you can always wear the ring on the third ring finger on the opposite hand. You can also wear the ring on the pinky finger, especially if you are further up in the tradition.
Some people who aren’t used to rings or tend to lose them wear them on a chain around their neck or a keychain so they can stay close to them. You can do this if you also often tend to lose the ring.
Regardless of how you wear the ring, ensure that the compass is always facing you. This way, it shows that you are taking the pledge of the tradition seriously and you are proud of the institution.
Do take care of your Masonic ring.
Like any jewelry, it can become damaged or worn over time. To prevent this, clean your ring regularly. When doing it, use a soft, damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime present gently. Stay away from harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they are known to damage the metal or the Masonic symbols on the ring.
You also should polish your ring regularly using a soft, dry cloth. If you have the budget, you can also use a jewelry polishing cloth or a mild jewelry cleaner to remove the tarnish and restore the shine of your ring.
As much as your ring is made from metal. Watch how you handle it. As a rule of thumb, don’t be rough with the ring. You also should avoid wearing the ring in areas with extreme temperatures, moisture, or chemicals. As these can cause damage to the metal or the symbols on your ring.
Store your ring carefully.
When not wearing your ring, store it in a soft. Padded jewelry box or a protective pouch to prevent it from getting scratched or damaged.
If you have other rings, don’t put your Masonic ring together with them, as there is the risk of the ring getting scratched or damaged by other pieces.
Don’t inappropriately flaunt your Masonic ring.
Remember that the Masonic fraternity is a serious and respected organization, and your ring should be treated equally. If you are visiting a place where you feel the ring will draw too much attention, it’s wise to avoid wearing it.
A great alternative is to have a plain band on your finger instead of your Masonic ring.
Since freemasonry is a private organization, many members value their privacy. As such, besides flaunting your ring, you should avoid discussing the fraternity or its activities with non-members unless you have their permission.
Do inspect your ring regularly.
Many people never bother with inspecting their rings. This is wrong. To ensure that the ring is in good working condition, you must inspect it regularly. When you remove the ring, inspect it and ensure everything is in place.
When you wear the ring for at least a year, it’s common to start losing its shine. To maintain the look, take your ring to an expert and have it professionally cleaned and polished. The professional should also inspect it and, if it has a problem, fix it regardless of how minor it is.
Parting shot
You should and shouldn’t do these things with your Masonic rings.
To get the most from your Masonic rings, ensure that you get them from a reputable store. As a rule of thumb, you should ensure that your rings are made from high-quality metal.