The Birth of a Tradition

The benchmark for American college class rings was set in 1835 when West Point introduced its first design, making it the earliest U.S. institution to adopt a ring as a unifying symbol of class identity. 

In the early years, designs were chosen informally, but by 1869, cadets formalized the process by creating the Ring and Crest Committee - one of the first major responsibilities you assume during Cadet Basic Training. This committee safeguards your class identity, working through your plebe and yearling years to design a ring and crest that reflect both your shared experiences and the academy’s proud heritage.

The Ring Design

By 1917, the ring adopted the signature structure that endures today. One side bears the class crest, representing your generation’s values, motto, and spirit; the other features the official West Point crest, anchoring you in the ideals of Duty, Honor, Country. Together, these two crests symbolize the dual bond you form - first with your classmates, and then with the entire Long Gray Line. 

The ring band design is standardized, but the stone is yours to choose. Some cadets select gemstones tied to family, faith, or personal meaning. Others embrace tradition more literally, inspired by the legend of a cadet who set a stone from the very path where he walked off countless demerits. 

Whatever you choose, the ring becomes unmistakably personal.

Symbols in Gold

One of the traditions that marks an important milestone as you prepare to enter your cow/yuk year, the Ring Show, is your first look at the class ring that will mark your transition into the upperclass ranks. You work with designers, academy leaders and fellow cadets to decide on the ring’s symbols, layout and overall style, which incorporates symbols, mottos and historical references unique to your class.

Your class motto also becomes part of that identity. Each class since 1835 has selected its own phrase to engrave on the crest, most in Latin, but some in English, and even one in Scottish (“Dinna Wait”). These mottos often capture the ambition or character of the class, and graduates carry them for life.

When Past Meets Present

The Ring Melt is a ceremonial event in which gold from donated West Point class rings—some from graduates who served in major conflicts—is added to the gold used for the new class’s rings. The tradition symbolizes the connection between past and present cadets and reinforces the academy’s emphasis on service, sacrifice and continuity. Together, the Ring Show and Ring Melt highlight the moment when cadets step more fully into the responsibilities of their future roles as Army officers.

Lifelong Meaning

Across generations, West Point graduates speak passionately about the meaning of the ring. It’s more than jewelry, it’s a reminder of the discipline, sacrifice, and personal growth that shaped you; the friendships forged under pressure; and your place in a lineage of leaders who wore the same symbol. The moment you receive your ring marks your passage into the heart of West Point tradition and your permanent membership in the Long Gray Line.