Atlanta United’s penchant for going big with crowds, wins and ambition also is true of its MLS championship rings.
The players received their rings, designed by Jostens, on Thursday in a private presentation at the team’s training facility in Marietta. The rings will be given to every player and coach who had first-team contracts with the team in 2018, regardless of whether they are still with the club. Atlanta United defeated Portland 2-0 in December to win the championship.
The club declined to say how much each ring cost. A jeweler who asked not to be identified because his valuation was based upon a photo of a ring and without knowing the quality of the stones estimated a price of $6,500.
Based upon a description provided by the team, the numerous rappers who love the team may be jealous of this bling.
The ring is made from 10-karat white and yellow gold.
It features 101 diamonds.
It has 14 more yellow diamonds that form an “A” atop five stripes made from black onyx and garnet stones.
Circling the face are train tracks made of yellow gold. There is one diamond on the top of the face a and one ruby at the bottom. “MLS Cup” is written on top and “Champions” on the bottom of the face.
And that’s just the face of a ring that continues franchise owner Arthur Blank’s pledge of the “best or nothing” when it comes to the team.
The left side of the ring includes “Unite & Conquer” in yellow gold above each recipient's name. Below the name is “UNITED” in gold with the “I” replaced with a Golden Spike. Below “United,” each player’s number is set with diamonds.
The right side of the ring features “Atlanta United” in yellow gold across the top with the MLS Cup. The side features the city skyline. Below the skyline is the Cup, with “CONQUERED,” above it and “20” and “18” on either side.
Inside the ring are Dec. 8, 2018, which is when the team defeated Portland, the final score and one of the team’s mottos, “5 Stripes Don’t Stop.”
Jostens is creating merchandise inspired by the ring that supporters can purchase online at www.jostens.com/united.
-
Southern Fried Soccer Podcasts
Follow me on twitter @DougRobersonAJC
On Facebook at Atlanta United News Now
Atlanta United coverage on the Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Have a question? Email me at droberson@ajc.com
About the Author
