Omega Psi Phi jewelry carries meaning in every color and symbol. The fraternity's royal purple and old gold colors, its Greek letters, its four founders, and its cardinal principles each tell part of a story that began in 1911. This guide breaks down what those symbols mean and how to choose or gift a Que piece that honors the legacy with pride.
A brief history of Omega Psi Phi
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was founded on November 17, 1911, at Howard University in Washington, D.C. — the first national fraternity founded at a historically Black college. It was established by three undergraduates — Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, and Frank Coleman — along with their faculty adviser, Ernest Everett Just, who together are honored as the Four Founders. One of the nine organizations of the Divine Nine (the National Pan-Hellenic Council), Omega takes its name and motto from a Greek phrase meaning “friendship is essential to the soul.”
That legacy is why Omega jewelry means so much to members, known as Ques. A Greek-letter pendant or a purple-and-gold bracelet isn't only decorative; it's a way to carry more than a century of brotherhood and service.
The official colors: royal purple and old gold
Omega Psi Phi's colors are royal purple and old gold. Purple reflects royalty and dignity, and old gold reflects excellence and achievement. In jewelry, these colors appear as purple stones, enamel, or cord paired with gold-tone metal — an instantly recognizable signal of membership. When you see royal purple and gold together, you're almost certainly looking at an Omega-inspired piece.
The Greek letters: Omega's signature
The Greek letters Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ) are the fraternity's most direct and recognizable emblem. Greek-letter necklaces, pendants, and rings are among the most popular Omega pieces because they signal membership instantly. Many members pair them with purple and gold accents for a complete look.
The Four Founders and Cardinal Principles
Omega identity is anchored by its Four Founders and its four Cardinal Principles: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. These principles guide the fraternity's service and brotherhood, and they inspire meaningful gifts for milestones like crossing, graduation, and Founders Day. The founding year 1911 is another common motif across Omega jewelry.
Popular types of Omega Psi Phi jewelry
- Necklaces & pendants — Greek-letter pendants, line or jersey number pieces, and rope chains are everyday favorites.
- Bracelets — purple-and-gold cord, leather, and beaded bracelets.
- Rings — Greek-letter and signet rings in gold tone or sterling silver.
- Lapel pins & challenge coins — perfect for Founders Day, meetings, and professional attire.
- Custom pieces — add a chapter or line number to make a piece your own.
Two member favorites to start with: the Omega Gold Greek Letter Pendant Necklace for a classic Greek-letter look, and the Gold and Purple Cord Bracelet for everyday wear. Explore the full Omega Psi Phi collection for more.
How to choose Omega Psi Phi jewelry
- Match the occasion. For crossing and probate celebrations and Founders Day (November 17), bolder Greek-letter and purple-and-gold pieces shine. For work or church, choose a subtle pendant, a signet ring, 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 Omega's old gold. Look for a “925” stamp on sterling pieces.
- Make it personal. Line- and jersey-number and custom pieces let you carry your own chapter's story.
Caring for your Omega Psi Phi 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 Omega 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 Omega Psi Phi piece turns everyday wear into a statement of brotherhood and service. Explore the full Omega Psi Phi collection at Trendzio to find royal purple and old gold pieces made to honor the legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Omega Psi Phi's colors?
Omega Psi Phi's official colors are royal purple and old gold. Purple represents royalty and dignity while old gold represents excellence, and the two appear together across most Omega jewelry.
When and where was Omega Psi Phi founded?
Omega Psi Phi was founded on November 17, 1911, at Howard University — the first national fraternity founded at a historically Black college. It was established by four founders, including three students and their faculty adviser.
What are the cardinal principles of Omega Psi Phi?
The cardinal principles of Omega Psi Phi are Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. They guide the fraternity's brotherhood and service.
What do the symbols on Omega Psi Phi jewelry mean?
Common Omega symbols include the Greek letters Omega Psi Phi, the royal purple and old gold colors, the founding year 1911, and references to the cardinal principles and four founders.
What jewelry can Omega Psi Phi members wear?
Members, known as Ques, commonly wear Greek-letter necklaces and rings, purple-and-gold bracelets, lapel pins, challenge coins, and line or jersey number pieces. Sterling silver and gold-tone options suit everyday wear.
Is Omega Psi Phi jewelry available in sterling silver?
Yes. Many Omega pieces are made in genuine 925 sterling silver or durable gold-tone stainless steel. Look for the "925" stamp to confirm authentic sterling silver.
