While the square and compasses with the letter "G" is widely employed as the emblem of the Masonic Fraternity it is relatively new. The square and compasses alone began to be used in the early 19th century. The "G" came into the picture near the end of the century when American jewelers began adding the "G" for artistic purposes. While many Masonic symbolists have tried their hands at interpreting the emblem, the simple meanings taught all Masons remain the best: (1) The square teaches us to square our actions by the square of virtue; (2) the compasses teach us to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions within due bounds, while (3) the "G' reminds us that as an understanding of geometry was central to operative Masons so should God be central in the lives of speculative Masons. (Source: Bro. S. Brent Morris, author, Masonic Philanthropies)