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Sigma Gamma Rho jewelry carries meaning in every color and symbol. The sorority's royal blue and gold colors, its poodle, its yellow tea rose, and its Greek letters each tell part of a story that began in 1922. This guide breaks down what those symbols mean and how to choose or gift a Sigma Gamma Rho piece that honors the legacy with pride. A brief history of Sigma Gamma Rho Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was founded on November 12, 1922, at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, by seven Black women educators. It holds a distinct place among the Divine Nine (the National Pan-Hellenic Council) as the only historically Black sorority founded at a predominantly white institution. Guided by its slogan, “Greater Service, Greater Progress,” Sigma Gamma Rho has long focused on education, leadership, and public service. That legacy is why Sigma Gamma Rho jewelry means so much to members. A blue-and-gold piece or a poodle pin isn't only decorative; it's a way to carry more than a century of sisterhood and service. The official colors: royal blue and gold Sigma Gamma Rho's colors are royal blue and gold. Royal blue reflects loyalty and strength, and gold reflects excellence and achievement. In jewelry, these colors appear as blue stones or enamel paired with gold-tone metal — an instantly recognizable signal of membership. When you see royal blue and gold together, you're almost certainly looking at a Sigma Gamma Rho-inspired piece. The poodle: Sigma Gamma Rho's mascot Sigma Gamma Rho's mascot is the poodle, a symbol of elegance, loyalty, and intelligence. Poodle motifs — pendants, pins, and charms — are a playful yet refined way to represent Sigma Gamma Rho pride and are among the sorority's most beloved designs. The yellow tea rose and other symbols The sorority's flower, the yellow tea rose, inspires warm floral designs, while the Greek letters and the founding year 1922 are other common motifs. Pearls are also a classic pairing, adding a timeless finish to blue-and-gold pieces. Popular types of Sigma Gamma Rho jewelry Necklaces & pendants — Greek-letter pieces, poodle pendants, and blue-and-gold designs are everyday favorites. Bracelets — blue-and-gold cord and beaded bracelets. Rings — Greek-letter and stone rings in gold tone or sterling silver. Earrings — pearl studs and gold drops for a polished look. Lapel pins & brooches — poodle and tea-rose pins, perfect for Founders Day and meetings. Two member favorites to start with: the Blue and Gold Love Knot Bracelet and the Carrie Pearl and Gold Necklace. Explore the full Sigma Gamma Rho collection for more. How to choose Sigma Gamma Rho jewelry Match the occasion. For crossing and probate celebrations and Founders Day (November 12), bolder blue-and-gold and Greek-letter pieces shine. For work or church, choose a poodle pin, pearl studs, or a small tea-rose pendant. Pick your material. 925 sterling silver and gold-tone stainless steel both wear well; sterling silver is hypoallergenic, while gold tone leans into the sorority's gold. Look for a “925” stamp on sterling pieces. Think about layering. A blue-and-gold piece pairs beautifully with a strand of pearls for a coordinated, dressed-up look. Caring for your Sigma Gamma Rho jewelry To keep sterling silver, gold tone, and pearls looking their best, store pieces in a dry, airtight bag, remove them before showering or swimming, and wipe gently with a soft cloth. Keep pearls away from perfume and lotion, which can dull their luster over time. With basic care, a quality Sigma Gamma Rho piece will stay ceremony-ready for years. Wear your letters with pride Whether you're marking your own crossing, celebrating a soror, or shopping for a gift, the right Sigma Gamma Rho piece turns everyday wear into a statement of sisterhood and service. Explore the full Sigma Gamma Rho collection at Trendzio to find royal blue and gold pieces made to honor the legacy. Frequently Asked Questions What are Sigma Gamma Rho's colors? Sigma Gamma Rho's official colors are royal blue and gold. Royal blue represents loyalty and strength while gold represents excellence, and the two appear together across most Sigma Gamma Rho jewelry. What is the mascot of Sigma Gamma Rho? Sigma Gamma Rho's mascot is the poodle, a symbol of elegance, loyalty, and intelligence. Poodle motifs are among the most popular designs in Sigma Gamma Rho jewelry. What is the official flower of Sigma Gamma Rho? The official flower of Sigma Gamma Rho is the yellow tea rose, a warm symbol of friendship that inspires many floral designs. When and where was Sigma Gamma Rho founded? Sigma Gamma Rho was founded on November 12, 1922, at Butler University in Indianapolis by seven Black women educators. It is the only historically Black sorority founded at a predominantly white institution. What jewelry can Sigma Gamma Rho members wear? Members commonly wear blue-and-gold pieces, poodle and tea-rose pins, Greek-letter necklaces and rings, pearls, and 1922 designs for events like Founders Day. Sterling silver and gold-tone options suit everyday wear. Is Sigma Gamma Rho jewelry available in sterling silver? Yes. Many Sigma Gamma Rho pieces are made in genuine 925 sterling silver or durable gold-tone stainless steel. Look for the "925" stamp to confirm authentic sterling silver.