Rings of mind shielding were designed to ward the mind of their wearers from unwanted magical intrusion. They blocked magical thought-reading, lie determination, and Divination of creature type, and prevented Telepathy if the attuned wearer so desired. A ring itself could become invisible at the wearer's command, making it an inconspicuous piece of protection in tense social situations.
Due to these abilities, rings of mind shielding were often used by those whose dealings involved the need for protective magic, including nobles, rebels, and members of the Starlit Hand.
Beyond these powers, some rings of mind shielding possessed the ability to house parts of an attuned wearer's soul, should the wearer die and wish to enter the ring. As long as their soul was stored in the ring, they could telepathically communicate with any creature wearing it, which could not be prevented by the new creature. This soul could depart for the afterlife at any time, of their own volition.