diane hamments asked:


Masonic swords beautifully engraved or etched with one or more.

Masonic symbols and emblems hold great significance to members of the order of Freemasons (Masons). There are several different styles of Masonic swords, and

each style can use different colored metals such as silver, gold, brass and bronze to

form the blade, hilt, pommel and other parts of the sword. Each style of Masonic

Sword can also bear several different engraved Masonic symbols and emblems,

each symbol or emblem having its own significance in the Masonic world. Masonic swords often have colored inlays that also add to their visual appeal, and they are sometimes set with gems or jewels. Masonic daggers – shorter versions of Masonic swords with blades that are only 12 to 14 inches long – also exist, and these are also highly decorated with Masonic symbols such as the Compass and Square.

Masonic Swords are grounded in honor, history, and tradition:

Swords in general have traditionally and historically been viewed as instruments of might, justice, honor, integrity and truth. They have been used for thousands of years, not just as weapons, but also as symbolic instruments that indicate status. Because swords are so highly emblematic of so many different virtues, they are still worn for ceremonial purposes at various important events. Many of the values that swords symbolize are at the center of Freemasonry, and for this reason, Masons often wear Masonic swords during their ceremonies and rituals.

No one is certain about the specific origins of Freemasonry, but it is likely that the organization developed out of the stonemasons craft guilds that flourished during the Middle Ages. The Knights Templar, an organization of Christian knights that was formed during the Crusades to protect Christians during their pilgrimages to the Holy Land, probably had a large influence on early Masons. And that historical influence almost certainly continues even today. Swords are intimately associated with the purpose and history of the Knights Templar, and this association could very possibly be

another reason for the symbolic, ceremonial importance of Masonic swords in Masonic

rites, both past and present.

Masonic swords are beautiful, highly decorative and highly symbolic instruments that are worn by Masons during certain Freemason ceremonies and rituals. They are finely crafted symbols of pride in being a Mason and of their owners’ status within the organization. They are symbols of the dedication of all Masons to justice, honor, integrity and truth - all of which are keystone principles in Freemasonry. Masonic swords are visual symbols of their bearers’ level of achievement within Masonic society and structure, but they are much more than that. Masonic swords are symbols of Freemasonry’s tradition of working to make the world a better place, and their bright blades reflect honor, history and tradition.

Gray Rollins asked:


A mason is a skilled craftsman who works with brick, concrete and stone. These are necessary for all types of new construction and repairs from building a fireplace to erecting a wall or laying flooring. Anywhere you will use brick, stone, or concrete, a mason can help. They will ensure the project is completed properly; the structure is sound; and that it is visually pleasing. Before hiring a mason, consider the project and ask questions.

Know what you want to accomplish before requesting bids from masons. A mason can help with design and layout but you should have a general idea of what you want done before requesting bids. The mason will ask specific questions and inspect the area where the work will be done to give you a better idea of the needs and scope of work.

Always get multiple quotes when hiring any contractor. Get referrals from friends or check the local directories to find several masons to quote on your project. Get references and review pictures of past projects to determine the skill level of the mason. Masonry can truly be an art form that takes time, skill, and patience. When I had stone put on the front of my new home, I was amazed at the amount of skill it took to make the wall look good. It took a lot of time to fit the stones properly so that there weren’t all big stones in one area and all little stones in another. The project took time but turned out gorgeous.

When looking for a mason ask questions about how long they have been in business and the types of projects they specialize in. Make sure they are fully insured and get proof. There is potential for damage to your property and you want to ensure it will be covered.

A quote will generally be comprised of labor and materials. The labor costs will include preparation, the actual work to complete the project, and clean up. Material prices will vary depending on the materials desired for the structure. An experienced mason can give you suggestions on the best materials for your project and possible options for budget concerns.

Hire the mason who has the best mix of experience, quality past projects and price. Make sure you feel comfortable with the person as they will be working closely with you and have access to your home. If you are not comfortable with a mason, do not hire them. Execute a contract before work is started. This should include detailed specifications of the work including labor and materials. It should also include cleaning post project and a warranty of work. Read this carefully to ensure you have everything covered. The costs should be clearly outlined and include the payment terms. Never pay the total cost upfront but instead reserve some for completion of work.

An experienced mason will be able to make a sound, beautiful structure to your specifications. They will be able to complete the project in a timely manner and clean up all debris so your home is properly maintained and safe. Choose a mason you feel comfortable communicating with and who has a proven record of quality work.

And if you are having a difficult time choosing a mason, try your local stone/brick company. Many have showrooms that you’ll want to visit anyway to pick out the stone or brick you want. They will often have business cards of masons that past customers have used and some showrooms will even have sample walls of work done by various area masons for you to look at.