A compass rose is a symbol on a map which marks the cardinal points of direction. It consists of a multi-pointed mullet within an annulet, with the point in chief marking north; this point should be accentuated, with a fleur-de-lys being common. Medieval depictions varied widely, but the most common depiction showed a mullet of eight points (as in the illustration); mullets of 4, 12, or 16 points were also found.
Though used in late-period cartography, the compass rose is not found in period heraldry. The illustration is a composite of several examples from 16th Century maps.
The King of Northshield bears: Sable, a compass rose argent within a laurel wreath, in chief an ancient crown Or.
Alexandre sur la Mer bears: Azure, a compass rose argent.
Annetje van Leuven bears as a badge: Ermine, a compass rose vert.