Help Index :: Races :: beard rings Dwarven beard rings and their signifigance The diminutive race of peoples know collectively as the race of dwarves share several common traits that mark their race as a whole. Among these traits are their shorter stature than that of most other races, a hearty endurance, generally a strong work ethic, and the ever-present beard found on both sexes. While some races generally find facial hair to be repugnant, the dwarves all take their beards quite seriously. To the dwarven peoples the loss of a beard to mishap is nearly viewed as being more heinous to the individual than even the loss of a limb. The dwarf who chooses to shave off his beard risks becoming an outcast among his or her own people who will wonder what is fundamentally wrong with the individual. Needless to say, that among such strong feelings about their beards, beard fashion would tend to become a subject of interest. An early forerunner in the beard fashion parade was, and remains the twin braids. Among other schools of thought single braids, multiple braids, unbraided, and countless cuts and styles are also popular. One underlying precept that took hold early on, and continues to be a highly esteemed practice among the dwarven peoples is the fashion of the beard ring. Having taken a strong hold as a consistent fashion statement, the upper eschelon of dwarves managed to orchestrate the whims of fashion to serve a practical purpose. Over centuries fashion became custom and the plain unmarked rings have become symbols of ones status within dwarven society. Though the dwarves talk little of it to outsiders, considering it something of personal matter, outsiders have learned the following things. There are seven metal types used to mark the various levels of achievement: bronze, copper, silver, gold, platinum, steel, and mithril. Young dwarves are not permitted to wear the rings at all until they have proven themselves by act and deed. Once proven experienced enough to be a member of society, the dwarven individual is permitted to wear the bronze rings. As individuals earn honor and achievement they are permitted to purchase rings that mark the gaining of prestige among their kindred. Most dwarves eagerly await the day when they can purchase their first set of rings and strives to improve their standing every day of their life. Only a select few have ever been accorded the honor to wear the mithril rings, and there is even a dwarven legend of one great dwarven warrior who so embodied the dwarven ethic and achievement that he was accorded a set of adamantine beard rings.