Looking at Coats of Arms

Coats of arms have been used throughout the centuries as identification. Nations and families alike use them to describe their values and themselves. For people interested in family history, it is interesting to learn about what a coat of arms means. All parts of a crest, from colors to animals to other symbols, have meaning. Here are the more common heraldic symbols, and what they mean.

Colors. The use of colors in coats of arms is not particularly varied. They are used mainly for backgrounds and sometimes as part of motifs including two (occasionally more) colors. With the notable exception of Scottish crests which incorporate tartans (plaids) into their crests sometimes, most of the colors are solid.
*Gold = generosity
*Silver or white = peace, sincerity
*Blue = loyalty, truth
*Green = hope, joy
*Red = military strength
*Maroon = patience in battle leading to victory
*Purple = justice, royal majesty
*Orange = worthy and proper ambition

Animals. These elements are among the most commonly depicted in heraldry. Animals have nearly always been associated with certain characteristics and traits, and they make good symbols when it comes to heraldry.

*Lion. This is among the most common used heraldic symbols. Many nations incorporate the lion into their crests and seals, and they are found in a variety of
family and clan coats of arms. The lion means dauntless courage when in rampant (standing on hind legs) position, and bravery, strength, and valor in other positions.
*Eagle. Yet another very common used animal. The most famous uses of the eagle include the Roman Empire and the United States of America. The eagle represents a noble nature, bravery, and strength. Outstretched wings indicate protection and when two-headed it represents two forces joining.
*Bull = bravery, valor
*Cat = vigilance, liberty
*Dolphin = charity, swiftness, love
*Dragon = valiant defender
*Rooster = courage, perseverance
*Fish = true mind, virtue
*Ram = authority
*Unicorn = extreme courage, virtue
*Serpent = wisdom

Plants. Plants are used less often than animals, but they still have their place.
*Shamrock = perpetuity
*Sheaf of Wheat = hopeful harvest
*Rose = grace, beauty, joy, hope
*Laurel Leaves = victory
*Lily (Fleur-de-lis) = purity
*Oak = age (old, respectable family), great strength, growth, fertility
*Acorn = strength, antiquity

Weapons. No crest is complete without some sort of weaponry and/or armor. Here are the more common.
*Hands or Arms Clad in Armor = leadership
*Helmet = strength, invulnerability, wisdom
*Ax = military duty
*Arrow = readiness for battle
*Hammer = honor
*Dagger = justice
*Spear (and Pike as well) = valiant knight, honorable warrior