Mood Rings: The Ultimate Guide To How They Work

Mood rings have been enchanting us since the 1970s, blending science, creativity, and a touch of nostalgia. These color-changing accessories work by using thermochromic liquid crystals that respond to changes in body temperature, which can vary based on your emotions. Calm feelings might warm your hands and display vibrant greens or blues, while stress or anxiety can cool them, shifting the ring to darker shades. Beyond their retro charm, mood rings offer a personal connection between your feelings and your physical self, making them a timeless way to express and reflect your emotions.

how do mood rings work

Who Invented the Mood Ring?

Mood rings were invented in 1975 by Maris Ambats and Josh Reynolds . Combining science with style, they designed the rings to use thermochromic liquid crystals, offering wearers a glimpse into their emotional state through color. Their creation became an instant sensation, blending self-expression with innovation, and continues to charm people today as a timeless accessory.


How Mood Rings Work

At the heart of every mood ring is a special “mood stone” made from liquid crystals adhered to a glass surface. These liquid crystals are thermochromic, which means they change color based on temperature. When your body temperature shifts, the crystals adjust their molecular structure, absorbing and reflecting light differently to produce the ring’s iconic colors.


But what’s really happening beneath the surface? Your emotions can influence your body temperature, especially in your fingers, where the mood ring sits. Positive emotions like happiness or excitement increase blood flow to your hands, warming your skin and causing the mood stone to show colors like green or blue. Negative emotions like stress or sadness reduce blood flow, cooling your skin and shifting the ring’s color to darker shades like black or gray.

What Mood Ring Colors Represent


Mood rings translate your body’s signals into beautiful, ever-changing hues. Here’s what the original mood ring colors meant:

  • Black : Stressed or tense
  • Gray : Nervous or anxious
  • Amber : Calm or relaxed
  • Green : Normal or balanced
  • Blue : Happy or content
  • Purple : Passionate or excited

At HorseFeathers Gifts, we’ve updated the meanings with a modern, positive twist:

  • Pink : Compassionate
  • Orange : Positive
  • Purple : Creative
  • Teal : Energetic
  • Green : Hopeful
  • Blue : Peaceful
mood ring color chart

Our Exclusive Mood Ring Collection


Step into a world of emotional expression with our exclusive Mood Ring Collection , where each piece reflects your unique feelings and adds a touch of beauty to your everyday look. Designed with care and attention to detail, our mood rings go beyond simple accessories—they are an extension of your emotions and a reminder to embrace the colorful moments in life.


Here’s what makes our mood rings special:

  • Sterling Silver Oval Mood Ring : Enchanting and elegant, this ring captures the essence of ever-changing emotions. The oval mood stone adds a bold, timeless touch to your style.
  • Silver Oval Mood Ring : Simple and sleek, this design offers effortless style that complements any outfit while reflecting your emotions.
  • Brass Oval Mood Ring : Warm and unique, this ring connects you to your emotions with a hint of vintage charm.
  • Small Silver Round Mood Ring : Subtle yet impactful, this design offers a delicate way to express yourself with timeless appeal.
  • Small Brass Round Mood Ring : With its free-spirited vibe, this ring blends style and sentiment for a fusion of fashion and emotional expression.

Each ring in the collection is adjustable and can be sized from 5 to 10. Whether you follow the simple sizing instructions we include or let us size it for you, your ring will fit perfectly and comfortably. The band design remains the same no matter which size you choose, ensuring both beauty and durability.

" I was so excited when I got my cute little package from Horsefeathers!! My mood ring is so beautiful and it just makes me happy! I have gotten many, many compliments on it!! Love it, love it, love it!"- Stephanie W.

How to Care for Your Mood Ring


To keep your mood ring looking and working its best, follow these tips:

  1. Keep it dry : Water can damage the liquid crystal and separate it from the glass stone, so remove your ring before washing your hands, swimming, or any activity involving water.
  2. Avoid lotions : Apply lotions or creams only after removing your ring to protect the mood stone.
  3. Store it safely : Keep your ring in a cool, dry place, like a jewelry box, to avoid exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures.

If your mood stone does get damaged, don’t worry! We offer a mood stone replacement service to restore your ring to its original beauty.

"This ring is so fun!! A little vintage with a little bit of old school 80s mood ring makes this ring a perfect accessory for any day! The colors are all so pretty and a fun pop for any outfit!"- Jill B.

horsefeathers mood ring and mood chart

Where to Buy Mood Rings


Looking for the perfect mood ring? You’re in the right place! At HorseFeathers Gifts, we offer high-quality mood rings in bronze and silver metals , available in two styles:

  • Large oval design for a bold statement
  • Dainty round design for a subtle look

With thousands of five-star reviews, it’s no wonder our customers love the charm, quality, and unique emotional connection of our mood rings.

" This mood ring is absolutely beautiful. I have gotten so many compliments on it when I wear it and I love the vintage look it has."- Doreen G.

Ready to shop?


Checkout our Mood Ring Collection today and find the perfect piece to reflect your style and emotions. Each ring is more than just jewelry—it’s a story waiting to be told, a reminder to embrace the colorful journey of life.

Mood rings are a timeless way to express yourself, blending the beauty of design with the wonder of emotional self-awareness. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for the perfect gift, our mood rings are a meaningful choice that will leave a lasting impression.

" I loved my mood ring as soon as I opened the box! The colors it turns are absolutely beautiful and I catch myself gazing at it all the time! I’ve gotten so many compliments on it. Thank you so much for making such a beautiful, modern, adult mood ring "- Jennifer S.