The Clemson University class ring is a tradition that represents the University’s rich history and allows alumni to spot each other both on and off campus.

The ring was first introduced in 1896. It was made from gold and enamel and did not yet have the marked letter C for Clemson until 1901. This significant change in the design allowed the ring to be identified with the University through Clemson University’s symbols. The tradition of the ring ceremony came about around a century later, in the 2000s, and this event has only grown over the years.

The ring represents a student’s time at Clemson, and students with 90 or more credits are able to purchase a ring. The ceremonies are increasingly popular, with over 4,000 rings presented annually in three separate ceremonies each semester. This tradition is a right of passage for many students because it signifies all the hard work they have put into earning their degrees. It’s a tradition that every Clemson student should have the opportunity to experience because of its uniqueness.

After students first receive their rings, they wear the C facing inward, which represents that they are currently a student at Clemson. Then, on graduation day, it is tradition for alumni to flip the ring so that the C faces outward, showing that the graduate is ready to take on the world. Graduates select someone who has been a key part of their Clemson experience to flip their ring. It is a symbol of what Clemson University is, and what it offers.

The ring comes in three different styles — dinner ring, large traditional ring and small traditional ring. The ring is a significant tradition at Clemson University, the rings are worn with pride because the stories behind each ring are just as unique as Clemson is.