Our Symbols and Insignia
The Crest: Chi Omega's crest was adopted in 1902. Centered on the crest is the white carnation, with the to the left and the to the right of the flower. Above these symbols are both the skull and crossbones and the owl. Beneath the carnation are the five letters, Rho, Beta, Upsilon, Eta, and Sigma. All of the emblems known and loved by Chi Omega are surrounded by a laurel wreath, used in ancient times by the Greeks to honor scholars and heroes.
The Badge: Chi Omega's badge is a monogram of the Greek letter "Chi" superimposed over the Greek letter "Omega" in raised gold. Set into the letter Chi are fourteen stones, always pearls or diamonds. Rho, Beta, Upsilon, Eta, and Sigma are inscribed across the top of the letter Omega. On the right side of the Omega, the badge bears a skull and crossbones, on the left, an owl. Only initiated Chi Omegas are permitted to wear the badge or crest.
The Pledge Pin: Chi Omega's pledge pin is a black enamel oval edged with gold; the Greek letters Chi and Omega are found in the center.
The Colors: Chi Omega's colors are cardinal and straw.
The Jewel: Chi Omega's Jewel is the pearl.
The Flower: Chi Omega's flower is the white carnation. It was chosen for its pure, delicate whiteness and its rich, refreshing perfume.
The Symbol: The owl, an emblem on the Chi Omega badge, is the most recognizable symbol of Chi Omega.
The Symphony: The Chi Omega Symphony was written in 1904 by Ethel Switzer Howard, a pledge of Xi Chapter at Northwestern University. She wrote the poem in preparation for her initiation and felt that the words exemplified goals to which Chi Omega aspired.
The friendships of Chi Omega are compared to a symphony. While one musical instrument playing alone is pleasant, when all instruments are blended together, they make beautiful harmony. So it is with Chi Omega. Chi Omega gains strength and depth from the blending together of diverse individuals. Ethel Switzer Howard's Symphony has since become every Chi Omega's creed.
