Sorority Jewelry and Etiquette

Recognition Pin — The official coat-of-arms is sometimes referred to as a “Cofa.” Sorority members wear a gold pin of Cofa design as a means of recognition, signifying their continuing commitment to the ideals of the Sisterhood. Each of the symbols on the crest has special meaning to our members, due to their relationship to the Sorority and the mission of our organization within the college or university band. Become familiar with the Cofa of Tau Beta Sigma so it can be recognized on sight.

Enameled Recognition Pin — A “colorized” version of the Recognition Pin, with decorative enamel highlights and twice its size, this item may be worn as an option to the Recognition Pin.

Jeweled Badge (Crown Set or Closed Set) — This is the official means of identifying oneself with the Sorority. Unlike many other organizations, purchase of the official badge is optional in Tau Beta Sigma. The symbols on the badge have special meaning to the members of the Sorority, and it is worn as described elsewhere in this manual. Appropriate attachments may be affixed to the badge, showing both the chapter’s Greek letter designation and any offices held by a member in the chapter.

Official Key — This is a gold key inscribed with the Tau Beta Sigma flower and letters. Designed to be worn on a chain or key ring, only initiated members of the Sorority are permitted to use it. It is an optional item of personal jewelry.

Prospective Membership Pin — A gold pin enameled in white, with symbols inscribed thereon, identifies Membership Candidates of the Sorority. It is to be worn in the same manner as the jeweled badge, with the exception of those other occasions or situations which the Membership Educator will further define.

Recognition Bar — This is a gold bar, enameled in the Sorority colors of white and blue and designed for wear on band uniforms, band jackets, or sweaters. Only initiated members of the Sorority are permitted its use, and it is an optional item of personal jewelry, unless otherwise stated as accepted policy of the chapter. It is a means of identification and should always be worn when visiting with other college/university bands if permitted by the Director of Bands. By this fraternal sign, members from other active chapters can make themselves known, and an individual’s acquaintance with others having similar interests will be greatly increased.

Life Member Pin — This is a gold circular pin with a blue enameled border. On the border are the words Life Member. In the center of the pin is the Tau Beta Sigma Crest.

JEWELRY ETIQUETTE

Pearl Badge, Prospective Membership Pin, Recognition Pin, Enameled Recognition Pin, Life Member Pin — May be worn on school clothes or dinner dress for more formal occasions.

Monogram Pendant, Official Key — May be worn with anything, but always in good taste.

Recognition Bar — Designed for wear on band uniforms but may be used on Sorority blazers or sweaters, band jackets, or sweaters.

Embroidered Crest — Designed for blazers or sweaters.

Sweatshirts — May be worn for informal occasions but always in good taste.

Rings, necklaces, bracelets, etc. — May be worn anytime.

Wearing Of Other Pins — If a member is also pinned to another Fraternity or Sorority, that pin is to be worn to the lower left of the Tau Beta Sigma pin.

Exchanging Pins — Only initiated members of the Sorority may wear the Official Badge. It is NOT to be exchanged with Fraternity members of other organizations. Sorority pins are to be worn only by initiated members. Prospective Members are not to wear the crest in any form until they are initiated.

Any article that represents Tau Beta Sigma should not be worn by anyone other than a member and/or colony member of the organization.