Of symbolic importance in Kin Bushi Ryu, is a piece of jewellery, known as the Torc (and sword). Only members who have been nominated by an instructor wear this pendant.

The foundation from which this honour descends, is to be found in the dawn of history.

Knights of the Middle Ages would band together in groups. Each group created a distinctive badge, the symbol of the group. The badge was known as 'The Order' and was presented to, and worn around the neck of, each knight.

Like wise, when Monarchs and Heads of State wanted to publicly honour individuals for bravery and merit, they would also present a distinctive badge (known as a decoration) to be worn and displayed by them.

The designs that characterised these decorations and orders attempted to reflect the nature of deeds or ideology through figures and symbols. Though a variety of shapes were primarily employed, it was the symbol of the cross that was more frequently used than most.

Though the origins of symbols of this type are found in all cultures of the world, the characterisations of the torc are Celtic in origin.

The symbolism, encompassing the Torc, is an instrument of knowledge, it is basic to the human mind and fundamental to thinking. Without doubt, the most ancient and fundamental method of expression; one which can reveal aspects of reality that may escape other modes of expression.

Symbolism evokes a sense of the scared, and it can kindle the imagination, leading to realms of wordless thought. It goes beyond the individual to the universal and is innate in the life of the spirit.

It is impossible to limit symbolism to mere meaning and definition in the written word. It is possible, however, to provide, or indicate, a point of departure for a voyage of exploration or quest, of mind and spirit.

The symbol itself is made up of two distinct objects: a sword and torc. The sword is clearly a symbol of the higher forms of knighthood, it is the instrument proper to the knight, who is the defender of the forces of light against the forces of darkness. The torc is a Celtic neck ring, said to represent the 'cosmic reality', and was worn by individuals of high status.

The symbol is androgynous and worn both by men and women. It will be worn only by those people who train or have trained.

The Torc depicts the masculine and feminine principle of Yin & Yang, together they symbolise all complementary opposites in the dualistic universe, in powers, qualities, human, animal and plant life.

The circle within the Torc portrays the universe and the centre of that circle can represent the seed of life or the supreme being, who sustains and animates it.

The cross (in the shape of the sword) may represent the Tree of Life. It is also a symbol of universal archetypal man, capable of infinite expansion on both the horizontal and vertical planes. The vertical line is the celestial, spiritual and intellectual, positive, active and male, while the horizontal is the earthly, rational, passive, negative and female, the whole cross forming a harmonious balance.

Only when a member of the Golden Knights displays certain qualities and has a rudimentary understanding of the esoteric interpretations of Kin Bushi Ryu are they permitted to wear this metaphoric pendant.