State decoration

State decorations are orders, medals and other decorations granted by a state.

Unlike non-state decorations, state decorations are regulated by the state. Such regulations may specify:

• Lists of decorations which may be worn on military and civil uniform
• The manner in which decorations are to be worn
• Restrictions on the acceptance of foreign decorations by citizens

State decorations may be divided into civil decorations and military decorations.

State decorations normally include one or more of the following components:

• Broad ribbons worn over one shoulder (on which may be suspended a decoration)
• Stars (or 'plaque') pinned to the lower chest
• Neck decorations suspended from ribbons around the neck
• Women's decorations suspended from a bow worn pinned to the chest
• Decorations and medals suspended from ribbons pinned to the chest

See also:

• Order (decoration)
• British and Commonwealth orders and decorations
• Military decoration
• List of military decorations
• List of prizes, medals, and awards