12/18/2023
In some jurisdictions, Chapters of Royal Arch Masons use the phrase "Geometrical Master Mason." This term originated in England during the 1800's. By the early regulations of the Grand Chapter of England, an applicant for the Royal Arch degree was required to produce a certificate that stated that he was " a Geometrical Master Mason," and had passed the chair. The word Geometrical was considered equivalent to "Speculative," meaning the applicant had to show that he was a member of a Craft Lodge (and in former times, a Past Master, though this requirement has been dropped in many jurisdictions today.)
The image shown depicts English style regalia used by the Supreme Grand Chapter of England.
(Source: Mackey's Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, 1916 edition.)
