Abstract: The crown element (3) for the packing (2) of a matter-exchange column (1) in the exchange part (2) of which in particular a gas flowing upwards and a liquid flowing in contraflow are brought into contact, serves for the guidance of these flows of matter. An annular gap (12) lying between the packing and the column wall (10) is largely roofed over by parts (30) of the crown element in the form of tabs. In accordance with the invention the crown element (3) is a separate component which exhibits the following features: regions (31) of the crown element which define a surface for making contact with the packing (2); the roofing-over parts (30) are connected with springy elasticity to the regions (31) touching the packing; and the profile of the cross-section of the crown element exhibits a radial dimension which enables fixing of the crown element in the annular gap (12) because of spring and frictional forces. The column may be equipped with collar elements at favorable cost by the invention.