The Black Cap is worn by any Scottish Rite member who has attained the 32° Degree. Its emblem is the Double Eagle. You will be eligible to wear the Black Cap as soon as you receive the 32° Degree.

    The Red Cap is worn by 32° Degree members who have been invested  with the Knight Commander of the Court of Honor (KCCH) by the Supreme Council. Its emblem is a special cross. The KCCH designation is strictly honorary.

    The White Cap means the member has had the 33° Inspector General Honorary conferred upon him by the Supreme Council. Its emblem is the cross of two transverse bars. This degree is also strictly honorary and is the highest degree Masonry has to offer.

    The Purple cap indicates the wearer is a 33° Sovereign Grand Inspector General and Active Member of the Supreme Council.

    The light Blue Capmay be worn by those who have attained 50 years or more of membership in Scottish Rite Masonry. The Supreme Council honors the 50 year member with an impressive lapel pin.

    Another question often asked by new members is, “When is it correct and incorrect to wear the cap?” The Supreme Council has stated that it is proper to wear the cap at Scottish Rite meetings, Class reunion meetings, Maundy Thursday Services, etc. It is improper to wear it on the streets, in stores, restaurants, transportation terminals, or any other public place.

    When wearing the cap, it is considered part of the wearing apparel. Therefore, it is not to be removed for normal ceremonies. For example, during a salute to the flag, the cap should remain in place and the member should place his right hand over his heart while standing at attention. During prayer, the cap also remains in place, and the member should either bow his head or cross his hands and arms over his chest.