VOCABULARY TERMS: CENTER EMBLEM, INSERT

Center Emblem. A separate medallic item, an insert applied to a larger item to customize the piece in some way. Usually the center emblem is a thin shell, but infrequently it could be a thin medalet. Often the frame is a struck item, the center emblem is customized, or a custom frame is mounted with a stock insert. An example could be a state seal as a center emblem applied to a stock inspector's badge to form a customized state inspector's badge. When a center emblem is applied to a badge it is also called a badge center. The base medal or badge usually is designed with a linear circle as the focus where the center emblem is to be affixed, with solder or epoxy. See insert (2).

Insert. (2) A component of a fabricated medal, the smaller part applied to a base medallic item, as a center emblem. Often a number of inserts are prepared in advance and on hand to be applied to a custom base medal; or conversely, the base medal is a stock item, and inserts are custom prepared to order. The function of inserts, as a whole, as first, second and third class awards, or junior and senior division of a sports event, and such. Inserts are always smaller than the base medal, they are applied by soldering or other means of attachment. A badge center is a common example of this type of insert.

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