Texas A&M Rings: The Ultimate Symbol of Aggie Pride

For over a century, the Texas A&M Aggie Ring has been a cherished symbol of tradition, excellence, and the Aggie Spirit. Worn by generations of graduates, the ring embodies the university’s core values and serves as a testament to their academic achievements and enduring connection to the Aggie family.

The History and Significance of Texas A&M Rings

The first Aggie Ring was designed in 1913 by a group of students led by Edward H. Cushing. Inspired by the iconic “West Point Ring,” it featured a simple design with the university’s initials, “TAMC,” etched on the face. Over the years, the design has evolved to incorporate additional elements that reflect the university’s history, traditions, and values.

Today, the Aggie Ring is a symbol of:

• Academic achievement and excellence
• Membership in the Aggie family
• Pride in the university and its traditions
• A lifelong bond with fellow Aggies

The Design and Symbolism of the Aggie Ring

The current design of the Aggie Ring has been in use since 1933. It features an oval face with the university’s initials, “TAMU,” engraved in the center. Surrounding the initials are 13 stars, representing the 12 founding states of the United States plus Texas A&M University.

The ring is made of solid gold or white gold and is typically worn on the right pinky finger. The band is engraved with the year of graduation and the recipient’s name.

Each element of the ring holds a specific meaning:

• Gold: Symbolizes the purity and value of the Aggie Spirit
• Initials: Represent Texas A&M University
• Stars: Represent the 12 founding states of the United States plus Texas A&M University
• Class year: Marks the year of graduation
• Name: Identifies the individual wearer

The Importance of the Aggie Ring Tradition

The Aggie Ring tradition is deeply ingrained in the culture of Texas A&M University. It serves as a tangible reminder of the university’s core values and the Aggie Spirit. The ring is a source of pride for graduates and a symbol of their connection to the Aggie family for life.

The Aggie Ring Ceremony

The Aggie Ring Ceremony is a solemn and meaningful event that marks the transition from student to graduate. Held annually, the ceremony is attended by thousands of students, faculty, and alumni. During the ceremony, each graduating senior is presented with their Aggie Ring.

The ceremony includes:

• A reading of the Aggie Code of Honor
• The presentation of the rings
• The recitation of the Aggie Ring Pledge
• The singing of the Aggie War Hymn

The Aggie Ring Pledge

The Aggie Ring Pledge is a vow taken by all recipients of the Aggie Ring. It reads:

“As a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, I pledge, wherever I may go in the world, to honor Texas A&M University with my actions and deeds. While wearing this ring, I shall always strive to maintain the high ideals and standards expected of an Aggie.”

The Aggie Ring and Alumni Engagement

The Aggie Ring is not just a symbol of pride; it is also a key to a network of alumni around the world. The Aggie Network is one of the largest and most active alumni networks in the country. Aggies are known for their support of the university and their fellow graduates.

The Aggie Ring serves as a connection point for alumni and helps to promote a sense of community and belonging. Through the Aggie Network, graduates can connect with fellow Aggies for networking, mentoring, and support.

The Aggie Ring in the 21st Century

The Aggie Ring tradition continues to evolve in the 21st century. In recent years, there have been several new developments related to the ring:

• The Aggie Ring App: The Aggie Ring App allows graduates to access information about their ring, including its history, symbolism, and care instructions.
• The Aggie Ring Collection: The Aggie Ring Collection is a digital archive of Aggie Rings from all years. Graduates can submit photos of their rings to be added to the collection.
• The Aggie Ring Etsy Store: The Aggie Ring Etsy Store is an online marketplace where graduates can buy and sell Aggie Rings.

These new developments help to keep the Aggie Ring tradition alive and relevant in the digital age.

Tips and Tricks for Caring for Your Aggie Ring

Here are a few tips and tricks for caring for your Aggie Ring:

• Keep it clean: Clean your ring regularly with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals to clean your ring. These chemicals can damage the gold or the enamel.
• Store it properly: When you are not wearing your ring, store it in a soft cloth pouch or a ring box.
• Have it inspected regularly: Have your ring inspected by a jeweler every few years to ensure that it is in good condition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when it comes to your Aggie Ring:

• Wearing it on the wrong finger: The Aggie Ring is typically worn on the right pinky finger. Do not wear it on any other finger.
• Resizing it incorrectly: If your Aggie Ring is too big or too small, do not resize it yourself. Take it to a jeweler to have it resized professionally.
• Losing it: Your Aggie Ring is a valuable item. Do not lose it! If you do lose it, report it to the Aggie Ring Office immediately.

Conclusion

The Texas A&M Aggie Ring is a cherished symbol of tradition, excellence, and the Aggie Spirit. It is a reminder of the university’s core values, a source of pride for graduates, and a symbol of their connection to the Aggie family for life. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Aggie Ring remains in good condition for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas A&M Rings

How much does an Aggie Ring cost?

The cost of an Aggie Ring varies depending on the style and materials used. However, most rings cost between $500 and $1,000.

How do I order an Aggie Ring?

You can order an Aggie Ring through the Aggie Ring Office. The ordering process typically takes several months, so it is important to order your ring well in advance of your graduation date.

What is the Aggie Code of Honor?

The Aggie Code of Honor is a set of principles that all Aggies are expected to uphold. It reads:

“An Aggie does not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do.”

What is the Aggie War Hymn?

The Aggie War Hymn is the official fight song of Texas A&M University. It is sung at sporting events and other university functions. The lyrics are:

“Sons of the Southland, hear the call
Roar the mighty battle cry
Texas A&M on top of them all
Fight for dear old A&M
With our claws out we will fight
We’ll put up our shoulders to the wheel
And crush all opposition in our might
Fight, Aggies, fight!
Victory for dear old Texas A&M”

Tables

Table 1: Aggie Ring Styles

Table 2: Aggie Ring Materials

Table 3: Aggie Ring Sizes

Table 4: Aggie Ring Costs