NNP

Star.  (1) A medallic item usually star-shaped and worn on the breast as the insignia of an order of a badge of honor. It is separate from any sash, ribbon or collar, always has multiple points and is often embellished with enamel or jewels. It has a clasp, screw pin or pin bar on the reverse for attaching to a garment.  See breast star.

Reference:                                                                                                                                           

NE42 {1982} Doty, p 312.

excerpted with permission from

An Encyclopedia of Coin and Medal Technology

For Artists, Makers, Collectors and Curators

COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY D. WAYNE JOHNSON

Roger W. Burdette, Editor