If rings could whisper, what would they say? In the case of the IEU graduation rings, designed by professor Saskia Bostelmann, they would murmur tales of transformation, triumph and timeless connection.
We recently stepped into Saskia’s Madrid workshop—an airy, light-filled space where modern craftsmanship meets centuries-old symbolism. Watching her work was like observing a poet write with metal. Here, each ring begins its life not as an accessory but as an idea: a distillation of the IEU experience into a form you can wear.
The mind behind the metal
Saskia Bostelmann is not your typical designer. A multidisciplinary artist and a professor of the IE School of Architecture & Design, she moves between classrooms and creative spaces with equal ease. As she puts it, “Magic is waiting outside the comfort zone.” This philosophy shapes both her teaching and her jewelry.
When asked to design IE University’s graduation rings, she didn’t reach for convention.
“I wanted a ring with a timeless design, yet with a contemporary feeling—not just another graduation ring, but a ring with IEU’s values deeply rooted in its design.”
Thus were born two designs: the R-EVOLVE ring and the DOT ring—distinct, delightful and dripping with story.
R-EVOLVE: Transformation made tangible
R-EVOLVE wasn’t a flash of inspiration; it was an idea that simmered, matured and finally met its perfect match. “It felt as if this essential idea had been waiting for this specific project,” Saskia says.
Like the students it represents, the R-EVOLVE ring embraces change. Its sleek, multifaceted design mirrors the transformation IE fosters. “Nobody stays the same; we all change,” Saskia reminds us. Wear it your way—it adapts, just like you did.
DOT: A modern nod to tradition
The DOT ring plays with history. Inspired by ancient signet rings, it swaps the traditional oval face for a perfect circle—the dot of the “I” in IE.
“It’s about belonging and identifying oneself with certain values,” Saskia explains. The design also nods to the Spanish phrase poner el punto sobre la i (dotting the i)—similar to our own “dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s”—an emblem of precision, attention to detail and IEU’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
A discreet space on the shank holds the student’s name. In a world of fleeting trends, this is a personal stamp—a reminder that here at IE University, you are always the protagonist.
Built to last, like the memories they represent
Saskia’s material choices speak volumes. “IE University’s education is solid, authentic and true to its values,” she says. Accordingly, she selected true metals—silver and gold—that age gracefully. “No gold or silver plating—plating disappears over time. True metals are timeless. They are a keepsake, an amulet and a treasure.”
Over time, scratches and marks will appear on the ring’s surface. Far from flaws, these are badges of a life well-lived—visible echoes of adventures, challenges and milestones. Just as our students evolve, so too will their rings.
More than graduation rings: A lifelong symbol
IEU graduation rings represent more than a milestone. They embody the journey—the knowledge gained, the friendships formed and the personal transformation that defines the IEU experience.
“Wearing an IE graduation ring means being proud of oneself for having accomplished this,” Saskia says. “The ring brings you back to where the journey started: knowledge, transformation, a world of experiences, friendships and a strong sense of belonging and identity. It takes you back to a state of mind where all is possible.”
Craft your own legacy
At IE University, creativity, innovation and global vision are part of everyday life. The IEU graduation rings, crafted with care and purpose, embody these values.
As graduation approaches, consider a ring that grows with you—a wearable legacy that connects you to your IEU story and the community you’ve helped shape.
Explore more at the IE School of Architecture & Design and discover where your next transformation might lead.