Sovereign Order of Saint James of Holland: system of recognition

The Sovereign Order of Saint James of Holland features a tiered system of recognition. 

Membership

Knight/Dame 

Knight/Dame of Honour (Ridder/Dame van Eer): This initial rank recognizes individuals who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to the virtue of honour. All Knights and Dames of Honour receive a neck medal as a symbol of their dedication. This category does not require the accolade (=formal investiture ceremony).

Knight/Dame (Ridder/Dame): Those who obtain the ceremonial accolade, will obtain the rank of Knight/Dame. Knights/Dames wear the same neck medal as Knights/Dames of Honour.  

Justice designation

Both Knights/Dames of Honour and Knights/Dames can be designated in their diplomas of Justice. To qualify for the Justice-designation, a candidate usually needs to prove a certain degree of noble ancestry.

Merit

Cross of Merit

The Cross of Merit (Kruis van Verdienste): This prestigious award recognizes distinguished services or notable contributions of the Order’s members to society, in areas aligned with the Order’s values such as historical research, cultural preservation, or charitable works.  

Cross of Merit with Star 

The Star of the Order is bestowed only to knights and dames in exceptional cases, at the Grandmaster’s sole discretion. Instances warranting the award include the establishment of a commandery and significant contributions to the Order.

Cross of Merit with Grand Cordon and Star

The Grand Cordon (Grootlint) of the Order is bestowed only in the most exceptional cases, at the Grandmaster’s sole discretion. It is combined with the Star of the Order.

Offices

The chain is reserved for the Grandmaster and for the special Offices of Commander Chancellor, and Master of Ceremony.