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Iota Phi Theta jewelry carries meaning in every color and symbol. The fraternity's charcoal brown and gilded gold colors, its centaur, its twelve founders, and its motto each tell part of a story that began in 1963. This guide breaks down what those symbols mean and how to choose or gift an Iota piece that honors the legacy with pride. A brief history of Iota Phi Theta Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. was founded on September 19, 1963, at Morgan State College (now Morgan State University) in Baltimore, Maryland, by twelve students. As the youngest of the Divine Nine (the National Pan-Hellenic Council), Iota was built on the purpose of developing and perpetuating scholarship, leadership, citizenship, fidelity, and brotherhood. Its motto — “Building a Tradition, Not Resting Upon One” — reflects a forward-looking spirit that still defines the fraternity today. That legacy is why Iota jewelry means so much to members, known as Iotas. A brown-and-gold piece or a centaur pendant isn't only decorative; it's a way to carry the fraternity's tradition of achievement and brotherhood. The official colors: charcoal brown and gilded gold Iota Phi Theta's colors are charcoal brown and gilded gold. Charcoal brown reflects strength and steadiness, and gilded gold reflects excellence and achievement. In jewelry, these colors appear as brown stones or cord paired with gold-tone metal — an instantly recognizable signal of membership. When you see charcoal brown and gold together, you're almost certainly looking at an Iota-inspired piece. The centaur: Iota's symbol Iota Phi Theta's symbol is the centaur, a mythological figure representing strength, courage, and vigilance. The centaur is the fraternity's most recognizable emblem, and centaur pendants and pins are among the most popular Iota pieces because they signal membership instantly and with gravitas. The Twelve Founders and the fraternity's purpose Iota identity is anchored by its twelve founders and its guiding purpose of scholarship, leadership, citizenship, fidelity, and brotherhood. The founding year 1963 is a common motif, and many members personalize pieces with a chapter or line number to carry their own story. Popular types of Iota Phi Theta jewelry Necklaces & pendants — Greek-letter pieces, centaur pendants, line or jersey number pendants, and brown-and-gold designs are everyday favorites. Bracelets — brown-and-gold cord, leather, and beaded bracelets. Rings — Greek-letter and signet rings in gold tone or sterling silver. Lapel pins & challenge coins — centaur and crest pins, perfect for Founders Day and meetings. Custom pieces — add a chapter or line number to make a piece your own. Two member favorites to start with: the Brown and Gold Love Knot Bracelet and the Line or Jersey Number Pendant Necklace. Explore the full Iota Phi Theta collection for more. How to choose Iota Phi Theta jewelry Match the occasion. For crossing and probate celebrations and Founders Day (September 19), bolder centaur, Greek-letter, and brown-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 the fraternity's gilded 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 Iota Phi Theta 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 Iota 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 Iota Phi Theta piece turns everyday wear into a statement of brotherhood and tradition. Explore the full Iota Phi Theta collection at Trendzio to find charcoal brown and gilded gold pieces made to honor the legacy. Frequently Asked Questions What are Iota Phi Theta's colors? Iota Phi Theta's official colors are charcoal brown and gilded gold. Charcoal brown represents strength and steadiness while gilded gold represents excellence, and the two appear together across most Iota jewelry. What is the symbol of Iota Phi Theta? Iota Phi Theta's symbol is the centaur, a mythological figure representing strength, courage, and vigilance. Centaur motifs are among the most popular designs in Iota jewelry. When and where was Iota Phi Theta founded? Iota Phi Theta was founded on September 19, 1963, at Morgan State College in Baltimore by twelve students. It is the youngest of the Divine Nine organizations. What is the motto of Iota Phi Theta? Iota Phi Theta's motto is "Building a Tradition, Not Resting Upon One." Its purpose centers on scholarship, leadership, citizenship, fidelity, and brotherhood. What jewelry can Iota Phi Theta members wear? Iotas commonly wear Greek-letter necklaces and rings, centaur pendants, brown-and-gold pieces, line or jersey number pieces, lapel pins, and challenge coins. Sterling silver and gold-tone options suit everyday wear. Is Iota Phi Theta jewelry available in sterling silver? Yes. Many Iota pieces are made in genuine 925 sterling silver or durable gold-tone stainless steel. Look for the "925" stamp to confirm authentic sterling silver.