Z-Ring/Core series games

A Z-Ring is made by refining a Sparkling Stone. Z-Rings have a slot in the center where the wearer can insert a Z-Crystal as well as multiple other slots to store Z-Crystals not in use.

The undefined receives a Sparkling Stone from in recognition of their bravery in protecting Nebby from a swarm of. After receiving their starter Pokémon, Hala recognizes the stone, and upon realizing that the player has been recognized by the guardian deity of Melemele Island, offers to refine it. The player receives the finished product, a Z-Ring, after completing the ceremony battle with Hau. As the player proceeds through the island challenge, they will receive Z-Crystals for their Ring from the Captains and Island Kahunas.

Being a part of the rites of passage in Alola, Z-Rings are much more widely distributed in comparison to Key Stones in Kalos and Hoenn. All Kahunas, members of the Alola Elite Four, and most captains use Z-Rings in battle against the player. Other key characters, such as Professor Kukui, Hau, and Gladion, have or obtain Z-Rings over the course of the story. The player will even battle the occasional minor character Trainer who will use a Z-Ring, usually after defeating all other Trainers in their given area.

Contrary to the lore, the player is never required to equip a specific Z-Crystal on their Z-Ring. The player can use any Z-Move so long as their Pokémon is holding an appropriate Z-Crystal and has an appropriate move.

