Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Masonic Scottish Rite Sovereign Grand Commander's Jewel Worn by Melvin M. Johnson in Case
1933
Maker not marked
USA
a: gold, silver, silk, enamel, diamond, possibly peridot; b: alligator, metal, silk
a: 5"h x 2-3/8"w x 1/4"d; b: 6 in x 3.375 in x .5 in
Gift of the Supreme Council, 33°, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A. from Melvin M. Johnson
SC74.307.28a-b

Scottish Rite Masonic Sovereign Grand Commander's Jewel in Case. a: Jewel: small gold crown with 6 diamonds, crossed batons (in gold) under crown; purple ribbon connecting pin to bar that holds the jewel; bar inscribed "M.P. Sov. Gr. Commander"; Scottish Rite Supreme Council Emblem; outer rim a gold serpent with emerald eye, silver sunburst with red, white, and gold emblem on top; center of emblem is a blue circle inscribed "Ordo A B Chao Deus Meumque Jus, 33". b: Case: brown alligator with purple interior.

As Sovereign Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction from 1933 to 1953, Melvin M. Johnson (1871–1957) established important Scottish Rite traditions, researched the history of the organization, and oversaw a doubling of its membership. During his first year in office, he wore this round, gold, enamel-decorated jewel. Only the symbols and text on the jewel’s ribbon distinguished it from the jewels worn by the Active Members of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite.