The Order is limited to Roman Catholics, though exceptions may be made in favour of Protestants if they possess the other qualifications which entitle them to the honour.
When the Grand or Commander Cross is conferred on a citizen or civilian, he receives with it a free patent of hereditary nobility of the State. The degree of first and second class
Knights confers personal nobility, or nobility only for life. The claim to the Order is Merit generally, whether in civil or military spheres of life.
The badge consists of a Greek cross, composed of four lilies, joined together by their leaves, the middle of the obverse containing upon a sky blue ground, three golden lilies, and the reverse, the motto as legend, ' Deus et Dies.' The figure of St. Louis of the Grand Cross, Commanders, and first class Knights, is of gold and enamel, surmounted by a golden crown; of the second class Knights, of enamelled silver and with a silver crown; and of the fifth class members, of enamelled silver without a crown. 'The first two classes wear besides a gold enamelled star. The ribbon is blue and yellow. The secular Knights of the Grand Cross wear the cross across the right shoulder, and the star on the left breast, while the Spiritual wear it round the neck, and the star on the left side of the mantle. The Commanders wear the cross round the neck, and the star on the left side, while all the other classes wear the decoration on the left breast. The Grand Master, alone, has the right to adorn his Order, without special permission, with precious stones.
