Almost every family will have its own distinctive crest somewhere down the line
, no matter how significant their stature, history, or surname. Family heraldry is laden with symbolism. In this blog post, we explore the different elements of these unique designs and what they mean.
What's the difference between a family crest and a coat of arms?
Although some people refer to a “family crest” and a “coat of arms” interchangeably, there is a difference. A crest is an element or part of a coat of arms, but not the entire arms. On a coat of arms, the crest is found above the shield, usually on top of a helmet.
What should be included in a family crest?
A family coat of arms has several basic components. These individual parts include
the shield, the mantling and the helm and wreath
. Some, but not all, also include a crest. Colors, animals or other artwork and mottoes are all additional choices to make.
How do I make a legal family crest?
Choose an ancestor and make a family crest
for him. Include elements in the design that have a meaning that relates to his accomplishments, occupation, and life. Another option is to make one for yourself. Have fun with this project for a while, and then return to your genealogy research.
Why do some families have a family crest?
Family crests and coats of arms are powerful family symbols passed down through generations. … The symbolism in the design of a family crest or coat of arms can
tell you about your ancestors' achievements and status in society
—a real testament to a family's legacy.
What is a good family motto?
Moral and Ethical Mottos
Mottos can be crafted to reflect your family's most important values. Options include:
Always there to always care
.
Always loving and supporting each other no matter what
.
What does a knight on a family crest mean?
Medieval knights used coats of arms to identify the wearer. … A knight's battle gear was so prestigious and spoke to all of his achievements, so the coat of arms evolved into a
status symbol that provided commentary on one's family history, property and profession or occupation
.
What is the importance of a coat of arms?
coat of arms, the principal part of a system of hereditary symbols dating back to early medieval Europe, used
primarily to establish identity in battle
. Arms evolved to denote family descent, adoption, alliance, property ownership, and, eventually, profession.
What does the helmet mean on a coat of arms?
Helmet. The helmet
supports the crest
. Positioning of the helmet represents rank: For example, a helmet facing forward with the visor opened means a knight, while a helmet facing side-ways with the visor closed is for a gentleman.
How do you make a family crest for a school project?
- 1 Create an outline of the shape of your choice. Create an outline of the shape of your choice on your poster board. …
- 2 Divide the shape into four sections. …
- 3 Explore and consider the meaning. …
- 4 Select a color scheme for your crest. …
- 5 Fill each quadrant. …
- 6 Laminate your crest.
Can anyone create a coat of arms?
You may certainly design your own coat of arms
, and there's even websites to help you do so (see below). You can also have it registered with the American College of Heraldry, which recommends you follow these guidelines when designing your own: Make sure your design is unique.
How do you get an official coat of arms?
You can
apply through official channels
to have a coat of arms made for your family. This is granted by letters patent issued by the Kings of Arms – this all got very Game Of Thrones didn't it?! First of all you need to submit a petition to the Earl Marshal.
Do German families have coat of arms?
Do we have your German coat of arms and German crest?
A German family crest is actually part of the coat of arms picture
. The crest is the part above the helmet and is just one element of the coat of arms. The sample shown below is just one of many German coats of arms and German family crest that we have on record.
What is the symbol for family?
Universal Symbols for Family
The word family was first used in the 1600's to describe a family as we see it today. At the present time, there are two symbols that are widely recognized as meaning family:
the family tree and the family pictograph
.
What are the traditional colors and symbols on a shield?
The five traditional colours are, with their heraldic names:
Red = Gules
.
Blue = Azure
.
Green = Vert
.
How do I get a family motto?
- Work Hard & Be grateful.
- You don't need to have the best of everything. …
- Be happy with what you have, while working for what you want.
- Be the Good.
- See the Good.
- You are stronger than you seem, braver than you believe, and smarter than you think.
- As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
