Royal Army Chaplain or Masons Brooch ?

[Indian Steve]

I found this in one of m boxes of jewelry. It test as 10kt but is not marked. I have found close look a likes that are Royal Army Chaplain and others that are Masonic. I'm leaning towards the Royal Army Chaplains but thought that I would ask the experts. Thanks for your help.

 

[Bodkin]

As a Mason, I'm going to say Royal Army.

 

[Bodkin]

Then again, maybe ties to York Rite Masonry.

 

[NOLA_Ken]

It appears to be a British or Commonwealth Forces chaplains badge, I say "appears to be" because I don't know much about chaplains insignia and I can't find one online in green. Pattern wise it's right though.... I'm a little suspicious of the loop at the top, but that may have been added later. Are you sure it's actually gold and not plated?

It's a cool badge, and it should be somewhat dateable by the crown.. a "kings crown" would date it from 1901 - 1952, and a "queens crown" from 1952 - now.... I don't however, know the difference between the crowns.... Maybe one of our English members could help with that

 

[Indian Steve]

I tested it with acid on the loop and on one of the points {twice} because I was sure it is plated. It held strong at 10kt but washed out at 14kt. I didn't believe first test so I did it again with the same results. I still have my doubts.

 

[CRUSADER]

The Crown type makes it WWI period.

 

[NOLA_Ken]

The Crown type makes it WWI period.

is there a reference showing the different crowns and how to date them?

 

[CRUSADER]

is there a reference showing the different crowns and how to date them?

Not as such I just use contemporary Cap Badges.

 

[DCMatt]

Here is a long thread from 10 years ago about these badges:

Unknown British Insignia WW1 period - Other Equipment - Great War Forum

They seem to be a bit of a mystery. At least back then...

 

[DCMatt]

Labarum - Articles

 

[Indian Steve]

I'm Learning a lot but it is still a bit of a mystery. Thanks For The Help!

 

[trikikiwi]

A bronze example is listed as "Royal Army Chaplains' Department. Collar dog. 1939-53. Bronze." (Badge #432) in my reference book, Badges of The British Army, 1820 to 1987, F. Wilkinson.