Its purpose is to reward merits considered truly unique, carried out by both individuals and entities recognized for having provided services or activities of various nature for the benefit of the general interests of the Principality of Asturias.
It is described in Law 4/1986, of 15 May, regulating honors and distinctions, published in the Boletín Oficial del Principado de Asturias number 125 on 30 May 1986.
This rule replaced the regulations for the granting of honors and distinctions of the former Provincial Council of Asturias, of 29 October 1970.
It cannot be given to the president or deputies of the General Junta of the Principality, members of the Council of Government, or any other senior official of the Asturian administration while they are in office.
It is solemnly presented during the celebrations of Asturias Day [es] on 8 September, the feast of Our Lady of Covadonga, the community's patron saint.