A family crest is commonly used to mean a family’s heraldic emblem, but technically a crest is only one part of a full coat of arms. In formal heraldry, the crest sits above the helmet, while the shield carries the main arms. A coat of arms belongs to a particular armiger or hereditary line under the rules of the relevant heraldic authority, not automatically to everyone who shares a surname.
For Scottish clan heritage, there is another important distinction: clansmen and clanswomen may wear the chief’s crest inside a strap-and-buckle badge with the chief’s motto. That clan crest badge is not the same thing as owning the chief’s coat of arms.
Family Crest vs. Coat of Arms: What Is the Difference?
| Term | What it means |
|---|---|
| Crest | The device placed above the helmet in a full heraldic achievement. |
| Coat of arms | The complete armorial design, centered on the shield and potentially including a helmet, crest, mantling, motto, supporters, and other elements depending on the bearer. |
| “Family crest” | A popular everyday phrase often used for a crest or even for an entire coat of arms. In strict heraldic usage, it is not the same as a coat of arms. |
| Scottish clan crest badge | A badge using the clan chief’s crest, traditionally shown within a strap-and-buckle design bearing the chief’s motto to show clan association. |
Looking for a Scottish clan crest?
Browse Celtic Studio’s Scottish Clan Names directory and clan crest collections. Use it as a heritage and shopping reference, not as proof of genealogical descent or legal entitlement to a coat of arms.
The Definition and History of Family Crests
The phrase family crest is widely used in everyday conversation, but formal heraldry is more precise. A crest is the three-dimensional device shown above the helmet. The shield contains the principal arms, while the full heraldic achievement may also include mantling, a motto, supporters, and other elements.
Heraldic rights also vary by jurisdiction. In Scotland, for example, personal arms are regulated by the Court of the Lord Lyon, and a clan does not own a single coat of arms that every member may use. The clan chief has personal arms, while clan members may use the chief’s crest in the conventional clan crest-badge form.
Heraldic Symbols and Colors Found in Crests and Coats of Arms
Heraldry uses a specialized visual language of colors, animals, objects, geometric forms, and positions. Modern reference books often attach traditional symbolic associations to these elements, but heraldic meaning is not a universal one-symbol-equals-one-meaning code. The same charge can appear in different arms for different historical reasons, so the complete design, its blazon, and its documented history matter.
Looking for a deeper symbol dictionary? See our dedicated guide to coat of arms symbols and meanings. The list below is retained as a broad reference for readers researching heraldic motifs.
Colors and Their Meanings
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Gules (Red): Emblematic of valor, bravery, and strength, gules signifies the warrior or martyr and is often associated with military might and magnanimity.
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Azure (Blue): A symbol of loyalty, truth, and faithfulness, azure reflects a commitment to noble ideals and is frequently used to represent steadfastness and reliability.
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Vert (Green): Signifying hope, joy, and loyalty in love, vert is associated with growth, renewal, and a connection to the land, illustrating the bearer's optimism and attachment to nature.
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Sable (Black): Denoting constancy, sometimes grief, sable is used to convey the enduring nature of one's commitments, resilience, and the determination to stand firm in the face of adversity.
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Purpure (Purple): Associated with royal majesty, sovereignty, and justice, purpure signifies dignity, nobility, and regal authority, reflecting the regal and dignified aspects of the bearer.
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Or (Gold): Symbolizing generosity, elevation of the mind, and wisdom, or is often used to highlight significant elements of the crest, underscoring the importance of noble qualities and respect.
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Argent (Silver or White): Denoting peace, sincerity, and purity, argent is used to represent truth and innocence. In heraldic imagery, it suggests transparency and virtue.
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Tenné (Tawny or Orange): Symbolizing ambition and determination, tenné is less commonly used but can represent a worthy goal or quest. It's often associated with a desire to achieve and a willingness to strive for success.
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Ermine (White with Black Spots): More than a color, ermine is a pattern that symbolizes dignity and nobility, often used to denote purity and innocence, as well as a high standing in society.
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Murrey (Mulberry): A mix of red and purple, murrey signifies the passion of red combined with the royal qualities of purple. It's used to represent ambition, creativity, and the pursuit of power.
Common Symbols
The reference table below groups common heraldic charges and motifs with their traditional meanings. Because heraldry is historical and contextual, treat these as broad reference meanings rather than rigid universal rules.
| Symbol | Meaning | Symbol | Meaning | Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABYSS | The honor point of the shield, the very center. | FLEUR DE LYS | Said to represent the Christian Trinity. The national emblem of France it just as common in English, Spanish and Italian heraldry. | OSTRICH | An emblem of knowledge and understanding. |
| ACORN | The symbol of plenty, also used in coats of arms as a pun on the name (Canting arms) | FORK | An emblem of industry, normally a hay or dug fork. | OTTER | Denotes one who is intelligent and industrious. |
| ANCHOR | The emblem of hope, usually painted with a rope attached. | FOX | Emblematic of intelligence and a refusal to be captured. | OWL | No surprise, the symbol of prudence and wisdom. |
| ANNULET | A ring, the symbol of strength. The Roman symbol of Liberty. | FRET | The true love knot of heraldry. Also said to be a symbol of persuasion. | OX | An emblem of persistence. |
| ANT | Also known as the Emmet, patience and forethought. | FROG | The symbol of harmony and peace. | PALMER STAFF | Along with the Palmers Script, are symbols of those who fought in the Crusades. |
| ANTELOPE | The symbol of peace and harmony, the heraldic antelope is unlike its cousin in the zoo or safari park, featuring the body of a stag with the tail of the Unicorn and fearsome horns. | FUSIL | A spindle used in the spinning industry, emblem of industry. | PARCHMENT | Depicted in a roll, an emblem of wisdom. |
| APE and MONKEY | Used to signify sagacity. The crest of Fitzgerald. | GALTRAP | Another word for the Cheval Trap to disable horse cavalry. A spiked weapon. | PEACOCK | A symbol of power and omniscience, used in ecclesiastical heraldry often. |
| ARK-NOAHS | Rarely encountered, the symbol of the Church. | GARB | The symbol of plenty, a sheaf of wheat. | PEAR | Used as a canting device as in the name Perry, a symbol of plenty. |
| ARM | Very common in crests, denotes industry. | GAUNTLET | Said to signify military service. | PEGASUS | The emblem of fame. |
| ARROW | The symbol of readiness, commonly used as a pun on the surname, as in Fletcher (arrow maker), usually seen in crests, but occurs regularly on the shield also. | GILLY FLOWER | An ancient emblem of generosity. | PELICAN | Normally depicted in heraldry wounding herself in the chest and feeding her young with her own blood. The pelican is the symbol of charity. |
| ASS | Uncommon in heraldry, represents patience. | GLOBE | When shown fractured with clouds and rainbow is the symbol of hope. | PENTAGON | Rarely found in heraldry, an emblem of health. |
| AXE | The symbol of military service and duty. Very common in crests, less so on the shield. | GOAT | Emblematic of persistence and strength. | PHEON | A broad arrow head, symbolizes readiness to do battle. |
| BADGER | Also known as a brock, denotes intelligence. Rarely used. | GRAPE | Denotes industry and plenty. | PHOENIX | Known to all as the symbol of resurrection. |
| BARNACLE | Not a sea creature, but a horse grooming tool. Denotes service. | GRENADE | A bomb that constitutes a warning in heraldry. | PILLOW | Emblematic of authority. |
| BAR-SHOT | Two cannonballs connected by an iron bar. Symbol of military service. | GRIFFIN | The beautiful mythical mix of eagle and lion is the most well known of all the heraldic monsters. It is the emblem of valor and magnanimity. | PLATE | A piece of silver, said to denote involvement in the Crusades. |
| BAT | The representation of watchfulness. | HALBERT | A battle axe, the symbol of military service. | POMEGRANATE | This seedy fruit is an ancient symbol of plenty. |
| BEACON | From the Saxon word becnian, symbol of the call to arms. | HAND | Emblematic of faith. | PORTCULLIS | The armored gate with the chains and spikes is a symbol of protection. |
| BEAR | The emblem of family protection. | HARE | Denotes one who is intelligent in warfare. | PROBOSCIS | The elephant trunk is an emblem of nobility. |
| BEAVER | Industry and perseverance. | HARP | The heraldic symbol of Ireland for centuries. | QUATREFOIL | The primrose, and early spring flower in Europe. The symbol of revived nature, and was adopted by the Church as a symbol of immortality. |
| BEE | A more common symbol of industry. Denotes a self made man. | HARPY | A cross between a virgin and a vulture, its meaning is unknown | QUIVER | A case filled with arrows, symbolizes military readiness. |
| BELL | The emblem of warning. Also used in canting arms. | HAWK | The symbol of a man of action. | RABBIT | Termed a coney, the emblem of courage and wisdom. |
| BEZANT | Symbolizes someone involved in banking, and equal dealing. | HAWTHORN TREE | Denotes bad luck to one’s enemies. | RAINBOW | A symbol of hope and prosperity. |
| BILLET | An oblong square, said to represent building bricks. | HEART | Sometimes depicted in flames, the emblem of love and devotion. | RAM | The male sheep is an emblem of strength and perseverance. |
| BISHOPS MITRE | The emblem of service to the Church. | HEDGEHOG | An ancient symbol of cunning and perseverance. | RAVEN | The symbol of Divine Providence. |
| BLACKAMOOR | The symbol of one who fought in the Crusades, also termed a Moor. | HIND | The female of the stag, emblematic of one who will fight if provoked. | ROCK | Used often as a pun on the surname. It is an emblem of security. |
| BOAR | Also termed a Sanglier, the emblem of the fiercely combative. | HORSE | Denotes one who is ready to do battle. | ROSE | Denotes distinction. Also used to denote belonging to the House of York (white rose) or the House of Lancaster (red rose) and is the symbol of England. |
| BOOK | Denotes learning and a willingness to listen. Often painted with a motto on the page. | HORSE SHOE | The age-old symbol of good luck. | SALAMANDER | Depicted in flames, an emblem of sacrifice. |
| BUCKLE | The emblem of fidelity and firmness. Common in Scottish arms. | HOUND | Usually a Talbot, the emblem of leadership. | SALMON | From ancient times in Ireland, the symbol of knowledge. |
| BUGLE HORN | Another symbol of military service, not to be confused with the hunting horn. | HYDRA | A fantastic monster with seven heads, a symbol of fortitude. | SAVAGE | A wild man, usually painted with a club, or indeed a tree, over his shoulder. A common symbol of strength and valor. |
| BULL | Represents valor. Usually shown in a walking position. | IBIS | The Egyptian bird is emblematic of patience and virtue. | SCEPTRE | A royal staff, emblematic of authority. |
| BUTTERFLY | Symbol of peace. Canting arms device used in Butterfield arms. | IMPERIAL EAGLE | An eagle with two heads. The symbol of fortitude and magnanimity of mind. | SCIMITAR | The curved sword of the Saracens denotes one who took part in the Crusades. |
| CADUCEU’S | Also known as Mercury’s Rod. The symbol of wisdom & medicine. | INK-MOLINE | The center of a mill wheel, an emblem of industry. | SCYTHE | The emblem of husbandry, not death. |
| CALDRONA | Boiling pot, denotes a willingness to do battle. | IVY | The symbol of eternal life. | SEAX | A scimitar with a notch cut into it. The arms of the county of Essex, England. |
| CALTRAP | A nasty device to disable cavalry horses. An emblem of warning. | JACKDAW | A member of the crow family, symbolic of death. | SHAMROCK | Not widely used, the regular trefoil is more common, but is of course the symbol of the Christian trinity. And Ireland. |
| CAMELEOPARD | Actually a giraffe, denotes somebody who distinguished themselves in Africa. | JANUS HEAD | Emblematic of the passage of time. | SHEAF | Termed a garb in heraldry, an emblem of peace and plenty. |
| CANNON | Another common symbol of military service. | JOUSTING LANCE | Symbol of a knight in service. | SHELL | Worn on the sleeve as a symbol of pilgrimage. |
| CAP | Also termed Cap of Maintenance, denotes service to King and country. | KEY | An emblem of one in the service of the Church. | SHIELD | Used as an emblem of defense. |
| CARTWHEEL | A common symbol of industry. Also used as a pun, as in the arms of Carter. | KINGFISHER | Symbol of the halcyon of the ancients. Rarely found. | SIREN | A mermaid, the emblem of eloquence. |
| CASTLE | The emblem of safety. As in the arms of Gonzalez. | KNOT | A symbol of love and faith in its many forms. | SKELETON | The emblem of mortality. When depicted with a crown it is the symbol of Christian death. |
| CAT | Not to be confused with the household kitty. This is a Scottish wildcat, represents vigilance and courage. There are still 400 in the Highlands of Scotland. | LAMB | Normally painted with the staff and flag is the emblem of Christianity. | SNAIL | Rarely encountered, the symbol of patience and reward. |
| CATHERINE WHEEL | The symbol of martyrdom, a torture device in its day. | LANCE | Denotes one in active service as a knight. | SNAKE | A common heraldic charge, emblematic of wisdom & medicine. |
| CHAPLET | The emblem of peace and understanding. | LARK | An ancient symbol of eloquence. | SPEAR | In its many forms, symbolizes a knight in service. |
| CHOUGH | A raven like bird, symbolizes death. | LAUREL | Sometimes shown in a wreath, is the emblem of triumph. | SPUR | An emblem of readiness to do battle. |
| CINQUEFOIL | Said to denote joy and plenty. | LEGS IN ARMOR | The emblem of The Isle Of Man, seen also on the arms of MacLeod. | SQUIRREL | An early symbol of patience and perseverance. |
| CLAYMORE | Denotes military fortitude. The Highland broadsword. | LEOPARD | Emblematic of a valiant warrior. | STAG | A very common heraldic animal, often shown “at gaze.” An emblem of one who will fight if provoked. |
| CLOUD | Symbol of faith and consistency. | LILY | The regular kind, is the symbol of purity. | STONE | A symbol of solidity. |
| COCK | The rooster is the emblem of vigilance, virility, and bravery. | LION | Regarded as the noblest of all the wild beasts, making it the symbol of strength and valor. The best known heraldic symbol. | SUN | Often depicted with a face and termed “in its splendor” it is the emblem of glory. |
| COCKATRICE | A fantastic creature of heraldry said to symbolize sin. | LIZARD | An emblem of vigilance. | SWAN | The royal bird is the symbol of harmony. |
| CORMORANT | This sea bird denotes wisdom and watchfulness. | LOCHABER AXE | From the Scottish region of the same name, a symbol of military duty. | SWORD | The age-old emblem of honor in battle. |
| CORNUCOPIA | The horn of plenty. | LOZENGE | A diamond shape symbol of a widow. | TALBOT | A medieval type of hunting hound. Emblematic of leadership. |
| CRAB | An uncommon symbol of patience and cunning. | LURE | A hawks lure, an emblem of pursuit. | THISTLE | The heraldic badge of Scotland. |
| CRANE | Often shown holding a stone, which would drop if he fell asleep, thus waking him, this is an ancient representation of vigilance. | LYMPHAD | An ancient one-masted ship, emblematic of expedition. | THUNDERBOLT | The emblem of Jupiter, sometimes termed Jupiter’s Thunderbolt. |
| CRESCENT | Said to denote service in the Crusades. | LYNX | The wildcat denotes vigilance. | TIGER, HERALDIC | A different beast to the Bengal variety, a symbol of courage. |
| CROSS | The symbol of Christianity, there are over 200 different types in heraldry. | MACE | Ornamental staff, the emblem of authority. | TILTING SPEAR | A tournament lance, emblematic of a knight in service. |
| CUSHION | A symbol of authority. | MARINE-WOLF | A rather fanciful name for a seal. A symbol of vigilance. | TOWER | The symbol of strength and protection. |
| DAGGER | Honor in battle, a common charge in crests. | MARTLET | It was thought in medieval times that the swallow (martlet) did not have any feet. It is painted with two feathers where the feet should be and denotes somebody who subsists on wings of virtue. | TRIDENT | A three pronged fork, an emblem of solidity. |
| DART | An arrow, the symbol of readiness, certain “artists” have depicted an actual dart. | MAUNCH | The sleeve of a lady’s dress. Denotes service as a knight. It appears the cutting off of the sleeve and giving it to the knight was considered a high honor. | TUN | A barrel, emblematic of industry. |
| DOLPHIN | The symbol of charity. In heraldry, the dolphin is green and red with scales and spikes on his back. He is most certainly not Flipper. | MERMAID | The age-old symbol of eloquence. | UNICORN | The head, neck, and body of a horse, the legs of a buck, and the tail of a lion all topped off with a twisted horn. A symbol of courage. |
| DOVE | The emblem of peace and chastity. | MILL-RIND | The center part of the mill wheel, a symbol of industry. | VINE LEAVES | A symbol of industry and plenty. |
| DRAGON | This fantastic heraldic monster symbolizes courage. | MILL-WHEEL | Another symbol of industry, often found in the arms of Miller. | VULTURE | An uncommon emblem of rapacity. |
| EAGLE | Emblematic of fortitude and magnanimity of mind. | MITRE | Emblem of high authority in the Church. | WALL | A symbol of solidity, usually embattled. |
| ELEPHANT | Normally awarded to those who distinguished themselves in the Far East. | MOON | Emblematic of serenity. | WATER-BOUGET | A device used in ancient times to carry water to the camp. A symbol of military service. |
| ENFIELD | A fantastic mix of animals found on the crest of Kelly, symbolizing strength. | MULLET | A star of 5,6,8, or 12 points associated with military service. | WHALE | Emblematic of patience and understanding. |
| ESCALLOP | An early symbol of Christianity, worn on the sleeve. | MURAL CROWN | A crown composed of bricks, an emblem of power. | WHEAT | A symbol of plenty. |
| ESCARBUNCLE | The symbol of a leader, it was a series of clasps and bolts that strengthened a shield. | MYRTLE | Given to those who were victorious at the Julian Games. | WHEEL | A symbol of industry, often used as a pun on the name. Used in the arms of Carter. |
| EYE | The eternal emblem of providence. | NAIL | A symbol of passion. | WING | Termed a Vol in heraldry it is an emblem of protection. |
| FALCON | Representing a man of action. | NAVAL-CROWN | Denotes one with service in the navy, composed of masts and rigging. | WOOL-PACK | An emblem of industry. |
| FASCES | Symbolizing those who have held magisterial office. The fasces were also the emblem of the Italian fascist party under Benito Mussolini. | NIGHTINGALE | Emblematic of eloquence and truth. | WYVERN | A cross between a dragon and a serpent and is a symbol of courage. |
| FETTERLOCK | A symbol of authority, is frequently painted as a fetlock, the lower leg of a horse. It is, in fact, a medieval handcuff. | OAK | Painted as the tree, or leaf, it is an emblem of virtue and strength. | YEW TREE | An ancient English symbol of hope. |
| FISH | Another very common Christian symbol in heraldry. | OLIVE TREE | The best known symbol of peace and harmony. | ZODIAC | An unusual emblem of the celestial sphere. |
How to Find Your Family Crest
Start with documented genealogy, not only with a surname. Search family records, places of origin, wills, seals, memorials, and recognized heraldic registers. People who share a surname can belong to different family lines, so the same surname may be associated with several different coats of arms, while many people of that surname may have no hereditary right to any of them.
If your research is specifically Scottish, Celtic Studio’s Scottish Clan Names directory can help you browse the clan and family names represented in our crest collections. It is a useful heritage and shopping reference, but legal or genealogical entitlement should be confirmed through records and the appropriate heraldic authority.
Identifying a Documented Crest or Coat of Arms
A documented heraldic design should be traceable to records, grants, matriculations, pedigrees, seals, or other historical evidence. A surname match on its own is not proof that a particular coat of arms belongs to your family line. When the distinction matters, consult the relevant heraldic authority or a qualified genealogical researcher.
Scottish Clan Crests and Crest Badges
Scottish clan crest badges follow a different tradition from personal coats of arms. The clan chief’s crest can be worn by clansmen and clanswomen inside a strap-and-buckle design bearing the chief’s motto or slogan. The badge shows association with the clan; it does not transfer ownership of the chief’s personal coat of arms to the wearer.
This distinction matters when shopping for Scottish clan crest jewelry or accessories. Celtic Studio’s clan collections use the familiar crest-badge format to represent clan affiliation on items such as cap badges, pendants, kilt pins, rings, and other heritage gifts.
Explore your clan name
Use the Scottish Clan Names directory to browse the clan and family-name collections currently available at Celtic Studio.
What Goes Into a Coat of Arms?
Because a crest is only one part of a full heraldic achievement, the elements below are more accurately described as parts that may appear in a coat of arms or its surrounding achievement. Not every coat of arms uses every element.
Common Components
- Shield: The principal field on which the arms are displayed.
- Helmet or helm: Shown above the shield in many achievements; its form can follow heraldic convention.
- Crest: The device positioned above the helmet, usually on a wreath, coronet, or other prescribed base.
- Mantling: Decorative cloth flowing from the helmet around the shield.
- Motto: A phrase associated with the bearer, family line, or clan tradition depending on the context.
- Supporters and other elements: Present only where the bearer is entitled to them under the relevant heraldic rules.
Does Every Family Have a Crest?
No. A surname does not automatically come with a crest or coat of arms, and not every family line has an inherited right to arms. In formal heraldry, arms are granted, confirmed, recorded, or inherited according to the rules of a particular heraldic jurisdiction. The safest approach is to research your documented family line first and then determine whether an ancestor was entitled to arms.
Scottish clan identity is a separate issue. A person may identify with or belong to a clan tradition without owning the clan chief’s personal arms. Clan members commonly use the chief’s crest in the accepted clan crest-badge form instead.
The Legacy of Heraldic Crests
In the tapestry of history, family crests serve as more than just ornamental designs; they are a testament to the legacy and values that families have carried through generations. Whether you're an enthusiast looking to discover your own family crest or a historian keen on the meanings behind these ancient symbols, the world of heraldry offers a fascinating journey into the past.
As you embark on this quest to find out more about your family's crest, remember that it's not just about the symbols or the coat of arms; it's about connecting with your ancestors and understanding the stories they left behind. Whether your crest is a simple shield or an elaborate tapestry of figures and colors, it holds a piece of your family's history, waiting to be rediscovered and cherished.
Preserving Your Family's Heraldic Heritage
For those fortunate enough to identify their family crest, the next step is preservation. Keeping these symbols alive through documented family histories, carefully researched heraldic references, or heritage jewellery can help future generations understand the story behind the design. One traditional form of heraldic jewellery is the signet ring, historically connected with personal seals and identity.
Final Thoughts
While the quest to figure out your family's crest may lead to surprising discoveries, it's important to approach this journey with respect for the historical and cultural significance these emblems carry. Whether your surname is associated with a grand coat of arms or a more modest crest, each bears witness to the enduring spirit of families who have made their mark on history.
In conclusion, a family crest is much more than an artistic emblem; it's a symbol of identity, resilience, and the enduring bonds that tie us to our past. As we look to these symbols, we're reminded of where we come from and inspired to carry forward the values they represent.
Family Crest FAQs
Is a family crest the same as a coat of arms?
No. In formal heraldry, the crest is the device above the helmet and is only one part of a complete coat of arms. “Family crest” is a common everyday phrase, but it is often used more broadly than the technical meaning of crest.
Does every surname have a family crest?
No. Coats of arms do not automatically belong to everyone who shares a surname. A right to arms depends on the rules of the relevant heraldic authority and on documented descent or a formal grant.
Can I use a coat of arms just because it matches my surname?
A surname match alone is not evidence that you are entitled to use a particular coat of arms. Different families with the same surname may have different arms, and many people of that surname may have no inherited right to arms.
What is a Scottish clan crest badge?
It is a badge that uses the clan chief’s crest, typically surrounded by a strap-and-buckle design carrying the chief’s motto or slogan. It shows clan association and is different from the chief’s personal coat of arms.
Where can I browse Scottish clan crest collections?
Use Celtic Studio’s Scottish Clan Names directory to browse the clan and family-name crest collections available on the site.