A graduation tassel is a symbolic accessory worn during graduation ceremonies. It's typically made of a looped cord or a chain with a decorative tassel hanging from it. The tassel is usually made of silk or a similar material and is often a single color, though some may have multiple colors to represent different academic achievements or honors.
The color of the tassel can have significance:
School Colors: In many cases, the tassel's color corresponds to the school's colors.
Academic Discipline: At some universities, different tassel colors may represent different academic disciplines or fields of study.
Honors and Achievements: In some cases, honors students or those with other distinctions may receive a tassel of a different color.
During the graduation ceremony, there is a tradition associated with the tassel. Initially, the tassel is worn on one side of the graduation cap (mortarboard). After all the graduates have received their diplomas, there is often a moment where everyone is instructed to move their tassels from one side to the other. This symbolic act signifies the transition from being a student to being a graduate.
Remember that customs and traditions regarding graduation regalia, including tassels, can vary between institutions and regions, so it's always a good idea to check with your specific school for their specific practices.