masons & eastern star??

[Celeste]

Hello All,

 Can anyone tell me about the Mason's and what branch of teachings they are from & what their practises are?

I've heard they were supposed to have been linked to the Knights of Templar but...? Does anyone know first hand information?  

The Eastern Star is a lodge for the for the women to join & one of their symbols atleast, is and inverted star (pentagram)This doesn't seem to be a good idea to me. What's up with that?

Thanks, Celeste