The central element of Keperic Heraldry is the circle that is placed on the generation rings. On a traditional staff it is placed three times around the circumference of the staff, so that it can easily be seen regardless of the direction the staff is turned. Children use only the ring with birth order strips and no circle until they are old enough to adopt a circle of their own.
If the circles are used in flag form, they are placed next to the flagstaff and the generational strips extend out toward the fly-end. For a ring on the finger or an armband the circle is only shown once and often includes only the current or two most recent generations. The circles are often staggered so they can be larger without over-lapping.
Each circle is meant to uniquely identify an individual, but this is no longer enforced, if it ever was. Now, each new circle must be approved by the ministry of heraldry, which requires that it be unique among cousins, and not one already used by any prominent person. In addition, families and organizations may register a simple symbol with the ministry that can then only be used by members of that family or organization.
A circle is typically composed of one or more objects placed on a background that is either a solid color or a pattern of some sort. Since these are intended to be distinguishable in very small form, you will not find the intricate detail that is common in European heraldry. Also, for an object to be considered for use, its silhouette must be unique.
Organizational symbols may be incorporated into a personal circle with permission from and according to the rules of use established by the organization. Organizational symbols are also used between circles, so long as it does not obscure the generational bands. Either method should only be done if membership is intended to be for life, since changing a ring after adoption is highly discouraged.
More frequently the organization will register a full ring instead of a simple symbol. This ring is then used below the generational rings as a non-permanent method of identifying with that organization. Organizational rings can easily be distinguished from generational rings because they have vertical strips instead of horizontal and because they typically do not use a circle. They place the simple symbol of choice on a solid background alternating with horizontal stripes.
Organizations may also register variants of their ring to identify current and former officers of the organization. While currently holding an office, the officer may put the ring on a separate orb on top of his staff. This orb can then be passed from officer to officer.
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Luke Gedeon