The New York Times has an informative article today on purity and chastity rings. This rings, designed to promote sexual abstinence before marriage, have become increasingly popular among evangelical & Catholic youth and adult singles.

One of the movements featured prominently in the Times article is Silver Ring Thing, which holds events in Christian performers promote abstinence. For more information on SRT, check out their website. Of course, there are also vocal critics of this movement, and the religious element of its school programs has made it the subject of an ACLU lawsuit.

Whether you're a fan and critic, these rings are a great example of religious jewelry as an extension of personal identity. For examples, check out the websites in the Times article or click on the banner below: