Alpha Phi Alpha jewelry carries meaning in every color and symbol. The fraternity's black and old gold colors, the Great Sphinx, the Seven Jewels, and its shield designs each tell part of a story that began in 1906. This guide breaks down what those symbols mean and how to choose or gift an Alpha piece that honors the legacy with pride. As an officially licensed Alpha Phi Alpha vendor, Trendzio Jewelry crafts every piece to honor the fraternity's standards.
A brief history of Alpha Phi Alpha
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York — the first intercollegiate historically Black Greek-letter fraternity. Its seven founders are honored as the Seven Jewels. One of the nine organizations of the Divine Nine (the National Pan-Hellenic Council), Alpha lives by its motto, “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All,” and its aims of manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind.
That legacy is why Alpha jewelry means so much to members. A sphinx pendant or a signet ring isn't only decorative; it's a way to carry more than a century of brotherhood and service.
The official colors: black and old gold
Alpha Phi Alpha's colors are black and old gold. Black reflects strength and dignity, and old gold reflects excellence and achievement. In jewelry, these colors appear as black enamel or onyx paired with gold-tone metal — an instantly recognizable signal of membership. When you see black and gold together, you're almost certainly looking at an Alpha-inspired piece.
The Sphinx: Alpha's signature symbol
Alpha Phi Alpha's symbol is the Great Sphinx of Giza, an ancient Egyptian icon that represents wisdom, strength, and endurance. The sphinx is the fraternity's most recognizable emblem, and sphinx pendants and rings are among the most popular Alpha pieces because they signal membership instantly and with gravitas.
The Seven Jewels and other symbols
The fraternity's seven founders are lovingly known as the Seven Jewels, and their legacy is central to Alpha identity. Other common motifs include the shield (protection, honor, and leadership), Greek-letter designs, and the founding year 1906 — each a direct way to display membership and pride.
Popular types of Alpha Phi Alpha jewelry
- Necklaces & pendants — sphinx pendants, Greek-letter necklaces, and line-number pieces are everyday favorites.
- Rings — signet and shield rings in gold tone or sterling silver for daily wear.
- Bracelets — leather and beaded bracelets in black and old gold.
- Lapel pins — perfect for Founders Day, church, and professional attire.
- Custom pieces — add a chapter or line number to make a piece your own.
Two member favorites to start with: the Gold Sphinx Pendant and Necklace for a classic sphinx look, and the Alpha Phi Alpha Shield Signet Ring for everyday wear. Explore the full Alpha Phi Alpha collection for more.
How to choose Alpha Phi Alpha jewelry
- Match the occasion. For crossing and probate celebrations and Founders Day (December 4), bolder sphinx and Greek-letter pieces shine. For work or church, choose a subtle signet ring, a small sphinx pendant, or a lapel pin.
- Pick your material. 925 sterling silver and gold-tone stainless steel both wear well; sterling silver is hypoallergenic, while gold tone leans into the fraternity's old gold. Look for a “925” stamp on sterling pieces.
- Make it personal. Line-number and custom pieces let you carry your own chapter's story.
Caring for your Alpha Phi Alpha jewelry
To keep gold-tone and sterling pieces looking their best, store them in a dry, airtight bag, remove them before showering or swimming, and wipe gently with a soft cloth. Avoid contact with perfume and lotion, which can dull the finish over time. With basic care, a quality Alpha piece will stay ceremony-ready for years.
Wear your letters with pride
Whether you're marking your own crossing, celebrating a line brother, or shopping for a gift, the right Alpha Phi Alpha piece turns everyday wear into a statement of brotherhood and service. Explore the full Alpha Phi Alpha collection at Trendzio to find black and old gold pieces made to honor the legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Alpha Phi Alpha's colors?
Alpha Phi Alpha's official colors are black and old gold. Black represents strength and dignity while old gold represents excellence, and the two appear together across most Alpha jewelry.
What is the symbol of Alpha Phi Alpha?
Alpha Phi Alpha's symbol is the Great Sphinx of Giza, an ancient Egyptian icon representing wisdom, strength, and endurance. Sphinx pendants and rings are among the most popular Alpha pieces.
Who are the Seven Jewels of Alpha Phi Alpha?
The Seven Jewels are the seven founders of Alpha Phi Alpha, who established the fraternity at Cornell University in 1906. They are honored as the source of the fraternity's legacy.
What do the symbols on Alpha Phi Alpha jewelry mean?
Common Alpha symbols include the sphinx (wisdom and strength), the shield (protection and honor), Greek-letter designs, the founding year 1906, and the black and old gold colors.
What jewelry can Alpha Phi Alpha members wear?
Members commonly wear sphinx pendants, Greek-letter necklaces, signet and shield rings, leather bracelets, line-number pieces, and lapel pins for events like Founders Day. Sterling silver and gold-tone options suit everyday wear.
Is Alpha Phi Alpha jewelry available in sterling silver?
Yes. Many Alpha pieces are made in genuine 925 sterling silver or durable gold-tone stainless steel. Look for the "925" stamp to confirm authentic sterling silver.
