Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are all getting ready to order their class rings. While all students can order their rings this year, too, it is customarily for sophomores. This is a tradition that started in 1906 and was created by Otto Josten as a keepsake connecting students with their class.

This tradition has stood the test of time since students continue to order rings. The class ring is a symbol that motivates students to graduate with their senior class.

“We usually get about sixty to seventy-five orders year-round,” said Tom Orme, representative for Jostens.  Decades ago, this number was much higher, but demand has changed over time.  While high school rings used to be very similar to each other, now they can be customized to each student.

To design this custom memento, a student goes online to Jostens and picks the finish of the band and the color. Then, they pick out a stone and the structure of the ring. They have the choice of engraving words on it.

New this year, they can choose between bracelets, tags, or necklaces. Whatever jewelry you choose, it shows off students’ school spirit.