Mortarboard caps are thought to have been created in the 15th century, as part of an evolution from a hat type known as a birettas, used by Catholic clerics and professors at the time.
The distinctive square shape comes from the flat board used by bricklayers to lay mortar. The Graduation symbol of a mortar board and certificate is the best representation of academic graduation. This Chrome plated symbol being used on a pen highlights one of the main scribing tools.