Masonic Jewels by Rite: REAA, French Rite, Rectified Scottish Rite and Emulation

Not all masonic jewels are alike. Their shape, symbols and use can vary according to rite, degree and office held in the lodge. A jewel from the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (REAA) does not necessarily follow the same codes as one from the French Rite, the Rectified Scottish Rite or the Emulation Rite.

Masonic jewels by rite - degree and office jewels

Masonic jewels, degree jewels and office jewels suited to different rites and traditions.

A masonic jewel is not a simple accessory. It can accompany initiatory progression, recall a degree or identify an office held within the lodge. Collars, cordons and degree jewels thus play a full part in the symbolism of masonic regalia.

In this guide, we help you better understand the main differences between REAA, French Rite, Rectified Scottish Rite and Emulation Rite jewels, so you can choose a jewel suited to your rite, degree or office.

Masonic jewels: degree, office and symbolism

Masonic jewels can serve several purposes in the life of a lodge. Some are linked to a degree in the initiatory path, while others identify an office held by an officer during their term.

Depending on the rite and tradition followed, a jewel may be worn alone or suspended from a collar or cordon. Its shape, symbols and sometimes its colour help identify its office or its belonging to a particular degree.

Key point:
Choosing a masonic jewel must always take into account the rite practised, the degree concerned and, for an officer, the office held in the lodge.

A carefully chosen masonic jewel allows you to respect the codes of tradition while keeping a quality piece, meant to accompany the freemason's journey for many years.

Jewels of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (REAA)

The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (REAA) is one of the most widely practised masonic rites in the world. Its progression comprises 33 degrees and comes with a particularly rich symbolism.

REAA jewels can therefore have very different shapes and symbols depending on the degree concerned. In the early degrees, the fundamental symbols of freemasonry hold an important place. The square and compasses are among the symbols found in many masonic regalia.

As progression through the degrees continues, the symbolism becomes more specific. Depending on the degree, certain jewels may feature emblems such as the pelican, the double-headed eagle, the cross or the sword.

REAA jewels are often worn with a collar or cordon, whose colour and ornaments may vary according to the degree or office represented.

A symbolism that evolves with the degrees

The richness of the REAA is particularly evident in the diversity of its symbols. To choose a suitable jewel, it is therefore essential to know precisely the degree it is intended for.

Masonic jewel and collar associated with the regalia of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.

Jewels of the French Rite

The French Rite also has its own traditions regarding jewels and masonic regalia. Depending on the variant practised and the lodge concerned, models may present a more or less sober aesthetic and symbols specific to each degree.

In blue lodges, the jewels associated with the first three degrees — apprentice, fellow craft and master — form part of the freemason's symbolic progression. The tools and symbols of construction hold an important place within this set.

Office jewels also hold an important place in the life of the lodge. The Worshipful Master, wardens, orator, secretary or treasurer may wear a jewel or collar identifying their office during their term.

Choosing a French Rite jewel must therefore take into account the degree or office it is intended for, as well as the customs specific to the lodge concerned.

Jewels of the Rectified Scottish Rite (RER)

The Rectified Scottish Rite (RER) has a distinctive identity within freemasonry. Its regalia and jewels belong to a symbolic tradition marked by a chivalric and spiritual dimension.

RER jewels have their own codes and must remain consistent with the rite's tradition. Their choice depends notably on the degree or office of the recipient.

As with other rites, a Rectified Scottish Rite jewel should therefore not be chosen for its appearance alone. Fidelity to the rite's customs and symbolism is an essential criterion.

Jewels of the Emulation Rite

The Emulation Rite, very present in British masonic traditions and in many English-speaking countries, has its own customs regarding regalia and jewels.

Degree and office jewels associated with this rite are generally characterised by a sober and elegant aesthetic. Depending on the model, jewels may be made of silver or receive gold-plated finishes.

As in other masonic traditions, the jewel accompanies the freemason's progression and may also recall the office held within the lodge.

Key point:
The rite practised is the first criterion to consider when choosing a masonic jewel. A model suited to the REAA does not necessarily correspond to the customs of the French Rite, the Rectified Scottish Rite or the Emulation Rite.

Degree jewels and office jewels: what's the difference?

It is important to distinguish between degree jewels and office jewels. These two categories do not serve the same purpose and may be worn in different circumstances.

The degree jewel is linked to the degree reached in the initiatory path. It bears the symbols corresponding to the degree concerned and accompanies the freemason's progression.

The office jewel, meanwhile, is linked to a responsibility held within the lodge. The Worshipful Master, senior warden, junior warden, orator, secretary, treasurer or tyler may thus have a jewel or collar specific to their office.

The same brother or sister may therefore wear several jewels over the course of their masonic journey, according to their degree, office and the circumstances of the meeting.

The main symbols of masonic jewels

Masonic jewels can feature many symbols drawn from masonic tradition. Their presence and interpretation, however, depend on the rite, the degree and the context in which they are used.

The square: associated notably with rectitude and right conduct.
The compasses: a symbol of measure, mastery and limits.
The level: traditionally associated with equality.
The plumb line: evoking verticality and balance.
The sword: present in certain regalia and offices.
The double-headed eagle: associated with certain higher degrees of the REAA.
The cross: present in the symbolism of certain degrees and traditions.
The pelican: notably known in the symbolism of certain higher degrees.

These symbols take on their full meaning when placed within their ritual context. The same symbol can thus carry a particular meaning depending on the rite or degree in which it appears.

How to choose your masonic jewels well

Choosing a masonic jewel always starts with an essential question: what is your rite and what is your degree?

These two elements help determine the suitable model. It may also be useful to take into account the office held in the lodge and any particularities specific to your obedience or lodge.

The quality of the jewel is also important. A masonic jewel is often meant to be worn for many years. The quality of the metal, the precision of the details and the care given to the finishes are therefore essential for a durable piece.

Depending on the model, personalisation may also be considered to obtain a unique jewel, while respecting the codes and traditions of the rite concerned.

Practical advice

Before choosing a masonic jewel, always check three essential pieces of information: the rite, the degree and the office. These elements help you select a model consistent with the lodge's tradition and customs.

Masonic jewels faithful to every rite

At Décors et Symboles, we offer a selection of masonic jewels and collars designed to accompany the different paths and traditions.

We pay particular attention to the quality of finishes and the fidelity of our models to the traditions specific to each rite and degree.

Also discover our masonic aprons, clothing, regalia and lodge accessories, to put together a set consistent with your rite, degree and office.

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