What the symbols on coats of arms, family crests and seals mean
- Colours and symbol meanings. Gold (or): generosity and elevation of the mind.
- Flowers and fruit. Flowers usually represent hope and joy while fruit signifies felicity and peace.
- Animals.
- Mythological creatures.
- Celestial beings and crosses.
- Objects.
In this post
What are the symbols on coat of arms?
Even the colors can have special meaning in a “family crest” or coat of arms:
| Color | Heraldic Name | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| Gold or Yellow | Or | Generosity and elevation of the mind |
| Silver or White | Argent | Peace and sincerity |
| Red | Gules | Warrior or martyr; Military strength and magnanimity |
| Blue | Azure | Truth and loyalty |
What are the 8 parts of a coat of arms?
Parts of a Coat of Arms
- Shield. The shield is the central shape on which the colours and symbols that make up the coat of arms are placed.
- Helmet and mantling. The helmet placed above the shield recalls the origins of heraldry.
- Crest and wreath.
- Motto.
- Supporters and Compartment.
What do circles mean on a coat of arms?
The annulet may have been borne to indicate that the bearer had the superior qualities of a knight. In some circles an annulet represented riches. On English arms, an annulet was a mark of cadency signifying the fifth son.
What does the lion mean in coat of arms?
The lion is a common charge in heraldry. It traditionally symbolises courage, nobility, royalty, strength, stateliness and valour, because historically the lion has been regarded as the “king of beasts”.
What does a dog mean on a coat of arms?
faithfulness and guardianship
The dog is the emblem of faithfulness and guardianship in heraldry. Dogs were considered loyal and temperate and the dog is a symbol of a skilled hunter. It was also associated with priests since priests were watchdogs against the devil.
What should a coat of arms contain?
The coat of arms on an escutcheon forms the central element of the full heraldic achievement, which in its whole consists of a shield, supporters, a crest, and a motto. A coat of arms is traditionally unique to an individual person, family, state, organization, school or corporation.
What are the words on a coat of arms called?
The official, written description of the coat of arms is called the “blazon of arms,” such as “azure, a fess argent between in chief two fleurs-de-lis and in base a lion passant of the same.” The blazon may seem like a foreign language, but it is simply a system of code words to denote colors, placement, and styling by
What do the AXE and hoe represent?
In the golden part of the flag, there appears a burning torch signifying freedom (Uhuru), enlightenment and knowledge; a spear signifying defence of freedom and crossed axe and hoe being tools that the people of Tanzania use in developing the country.
What does a lightning bolt mean on a coat of arms?
It was often represented in period art as “fire from heaven”. In Society heraldry, lightning is represented as “flashes” and “bolts”. The distinction is made in blazonry to denote two different styles of emblazonry, one of which was common in early Society armory but is no longer permitted.
What do scallop shells on a coat of arms mean?
escallop or scallop
Frequently appearing as an inanimate heraldic charge, the escallop shell initially served as an emblem for pilgrims. From this early usage derived its later employment in heraldry, as a sign of long voyages to distant lands. It symbolized piety, victory and warrior spirit.
What does a unicorn mean on a coat of arms?
Unicorns are associated with purity, strength and power. Pretty admirable qualities, don’t you think? They’re also proud and untamable – two words many people would use to describe Scots throughout history. Since the 15th Century, many monarchs of Scotland have used the unicorn in their coat of arms.
What does a wolf mean in heraldry?
Though commonly reviled as a livestock predator and man-eater, the wolf was also considered a noble and courageous animal, and frequently appeared on the arms and crests of numerous noble families. It typically symbolised the rewards of perseverance in long sieges or hard industry.
Can I create a coat of arms for my family?
Can You Design Your Own 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 read a coat of arms?
Heraldic Ordinaries
- Fess = horizontal stripe across the shield.
- Pale = vertical stripe down the shield.
- Bend = diagonal stripe.
- Chevron = like a house gable, pointing upwards.
- Cross = a plain cross.
- Saltire = a ‘St. Andrew’s cross’
- Chief = bar across top edge of shield.
- Bordure = border round edges of shield.
What are the 5 National symbols?
Here is the list of Nigerian national symbols.
- The Nigerian Flag.
- The Nigerian National Anthem.
- The Nigerian Coat of Arms.
- The National Flower of Nigeria: Costus Spectabilis.
- The National Pledge.
What are the four national symbols?
National Symbols
- National Flag.
- National Bird.
- National Flower.
- National Tree.
- National Anthem.
- National River.
- State Emblem.
- National Calendar.
What does elephant tusk represent in coat of arms?
Elephant tusks – symbolise wisdom, strength, moderation and eternity. The ears of wheat – in the oval shape formed by the tusks – symbolise fertility, growth and the development of potential, the nourishment of people and the agricultural aspects of the Earth.
What does yellow mean on a coat of arms?
honor and loyalty
In heraldry, yellow indicates honor and loyalty. Later the meaning of yellow was connected with cowardice.
What does the Camino shell mean?
The Scallop Shell is used as a symbol of direction along the Camino, pointing pilgrims towards Santiago. Pilgrims also wear this symbol themselves which further enhances the camaraderie along this great walking trail.
What does a clam shell symbolize?
The clamshell symbolizes beauty and spiritual transition. Because a clam can produce pearls and is at the time protected by its hard shell, it is also considered a symbol of secrecy and patience.