Is it considered tacky to wear masonic jewelry if you’re not a mason?
My grandfather was a mason for over 50 years. When he passed away there was an assortment of masonic jewelry left to me, including a couple pins and a beautiful tie clip with the masonic emblem on it. I am not a mason myself but is it tacky to wear this tie clip to a semi formal event? I would like masons opinions espesially! Thank you very much.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:03 am
honestly who cares what they think!
i would feel more honored having something from your grandfather andbe proud of it!
but the consideration is very very very thoughtful!
February 10th, 2010 at 9:04 am
If you run into other Masons they might think you are a Mason and might talk to you about it – if you don’t mind that, then don’t worry; there is nothing “illegal” or “tacky” etc… about it.
However, – typically people don’t wear jewelry unless they are masons.
Perhaps you could create a display case in your house showing off your family history, that might make for more enjoyable memories with friends who inquire about them…
February 10th, 2010 at 12:29 pm
Simply put…..
You will look like a doofuss. Some other Mason will come up to you and out you. It is tacky to wear a symbol for something you have not earned. To do so actually disrespects your grandfather.
February 10th, 2010 at 2:46 pm
If you are not a member, Freemasons do not like it if you wear the jewelry. I had a Great Uncle who was a Mason, and he told me that his pins and other emblems were keepsakes and could be displayed in my home, but not to wear them if I were not a member.
February 10th, 2010 at 5:15 pm
As a mason we find it very disrespectful to wear our emblems without being invited or accepted. I also believe that you grandfather would also find it disrespectful to him as well. It is a shame that he did not share more about our organization before he passed.
February 10th, 2010 at 5:55 pm
It’s not considered the best thing to do, even if it’s your Grandfather. Wearing them if you’re not a member is a little like wearing a rosary if you’re not Catholic- you might do it with great respect but you don’t have the proper connection to it. How ever, if he left small things like lapel pins I think you could put one or two onto a bracelet with other charms and wear them quietly, especially if it has souvenirs from other family members.