Fraternal chain

The fraternal chain, or Chain of Union, is a symbol representing the universal bond of brotherhood and solidarity that connects Masons across different lodges and jurisdictions.

A representation of this fraternal chain appears on Masonic numismatic items and regalia, such as surrounding the Square and Compasses on the reverse of a badge depicting the arms of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Schleswig-Holstein, as recorded by the United Grand Lodge of England. The origin, historical context, and ritual or symbolic applications of the Chain of Union are discussed and indexed within the research publications of Quatuor Coronati Lodge.

Although historical lodge library volumes from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries treat the subject infrequently, the emblem serves as a visual and conceptual expression of unbroken fellowship throughout the Craft.