Jiu Jitsu Medals: Celebrating Skill & Achievement in Competition

Jiu jitsu belt medals celebrate a practitioner’s progression through jiu jitsu’s belt ranking system, which signifies skill, knowledge, and experience—from white belt (beginner) to black belt (mastery). These medals are designed to honor the dedication required to advance, with imagery that includes belt color stripes, a ladder of progress, or a practitioner performing a technique specific to that belt level (e.g., basic escapes for blue belts, advanced submissions for purple belts). Materials reflect the belt’s significance: lower belts use zinc alloy with colored plating matching the belt (white, blue, purple), while higher belts (brown, black) often use brass or copper, symbolizing the deeper expertise and responsibility that come with advanced ranks. Engravings are formal and personal, featuring the practitioner’s name, belt rank achieved, date, dojo name, and often the signature of the promoting instructor, formalizing the milestone. Unlike competitive medals, jiu jitsu belt medals focus on individual growth, acknowledging mastery of specific techniques, understanding of strategy, and embodiment of jiu jitsu’s philosophy (humility, respect). They are presented in promotion ceremonies where the entire dojo community participates, making these medals powerful symbols of progress and belonging in the jiu jitsu journey.