Symbols

Greek Letters

The Greek letters Lambda, Chi, and Alpha represent the name of the Fraternity. In LCA written work, it is preferred to either spell out Lambda Chi Alpha or use the English abbreviation LCA. Greek letters are a graphical representation used primarily on logos, letterhead, and T-shirts. Unless otherwise noted, letters contain serifs on line ends only, thus not on top of the Lambda or Alpha. The Greek letters are one color. Outlined Greek letters are acceptable in a one-color print (meaning the inside is white).

Seal

Lambda Chi Alpha has adopted a seal design to serve the same purpose as the impression made by the signet rings of historic kings, and its purpose is to identify General Fraternity documents and publications. It should not be used for decoration, or as an ornament for items such as jewelry or stationery, unless it is to be used as the official stationery of the General Fraternity. It is now properly used on charters, membership certificates, and authorized publications of the General Fraternity.

The design consists of the cross and crescent upon which is superimposed a shield bearing the letters of the Fraternity, above all of which appears a Gothic circle bearing, in Greek, the inscription, “Seal of the Brotherhood of Lambda Chi Alpha.” It is in the Fraternity colors of purple, green, and gold.

Badge

The badge is a pearl-set crescent with horns turned toward the left, and enclosing a monogram of the Greek letters Lambda, Chi, and Alpha. The center of the crescent bears the Greek letters Delta Pi in gold on a black enamel. A variety of jewels may be selected for the Lambda.

Probably no fraternity badge has deeper meaning than that of Lambda Chi Alpha. Not only do the pearls, Greek letters, and crescent have their symbolism, but each line of the crescent and the relationship of the emblems to each other add greater significance. The meaning of the badge, of course, cannot be discussed here. It is an evidence of membership for an individual and should be used only for that purpose except as specifically authorized in the laws of the Fraternity. For example, the badge can be presented in the medium or miniature size, to one’s mother, wife, sister, or fiancé.

Associate Member Pin

The associate member pin has a most interesting history because it embodies the official badge of Theta Kappa Nu, as well as the original pin of Lambda Chi Alpha. The original Lambda Chi Alpha pin was a Gothic arch. With the union of the two fraternities, this was superimposed upon the triangles composing the official badge of Theta Kappa Nu. Thus, all meaning of that fraternity’s symbolism was added to the Lambda Chi Alpha emblem.

Friendship Pin

The Friendship Pin as we know it today is intended to be used for several purposes. It can be used to recognize a relationship that has not yet reached the level of engagement or marriage, during informal occasions where the badge may not be suitable, by members who prefer its design, or as a substitute by brothers who have yet to purchase an official badge. It can be worn on a suit jacket, sport coat, or used as a tie tack. The pin can also be worn by wives, fiancés, mothers, and sisters.

Coat of Arms

Coats of arms were originally family emblems, until cities, societies, and institutions adopted them. All college fraternities have them, but few institutions created their design with such faithful adherence to the laws of the ancient art of heraldry as Lambda Chi Alpha has.

Each part of the Lambda Chi Alpha coat of arms has a special meaning, the details of which are explained during the Initiation Ritual. Many of the public meanings of the symbols on the coat of arms are explained during the Associate Member Ceremony, and therefore, the coat of arms may be used and worn by all members, including associate members. It may be used on jewelry and stationery, among other items.