Updated April 2026 with additional FAQs and guidance from Hall of Names.

What Is the Difference Between a Coat of Arms and a Family Crest?

Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same. A coat of arms usually refers to the full heraldic achievement, including the shield and related elements. A crest is traditionally the figure displayed above the helmet. In modern use, “family crest” often describes the whole design.

What was a coat of arms used for?

Coats of arms and family crests are akin to a special logo that was used in times of old to represent one’s family during battles. This distinctive emblem encapsulates the individual’s origin, values, and achievements, making it a powerful and personal symbol. The coat of arms is not merely a decorative piece; it is a comprehensive visual narrative, with each element bearing its own significance.

Unravelling the mysteries of coats of arms.

The most prominent feature of a coat of arms is the shield. This central piece serves as the canvas for the rest of the elements. The symbols depicted on the shield, known as Charges, could range from animals, plants, and weapons, to abstract shapes and patterns. These symbols had a functional purpose too, as they were featured on the shield, clothing, and even over the knight’s horse and on the banner, making for a brightly coloured battlefield. Because these symbols can seem unfamiliar today, heraldry still carries a sense of mystery and prestige.

What about the crest?

Sitting atop the shield is the crest, typically an animal, bird, or other creature, often representing the family’s values or accomplishments. As the medieval period progressed, the importance of armour, especially for head protection, increased. The helmet itself also bore symbols, ensuring that the knight and his steed were entirely covered in meaningful symbolism.

On either side of the shield, you might find figures or animals known as Supporters. These are usually animals significant to the family or the region. Another key element is the motto, a short phrase or saying that appears on a ribbon or scroll on the shield. The motto often expresses the family’s values, beliefs, or aspirations and is often in Latin.

The mysteries of coats and arms and family crests can be solved if you know how to interpret the symbols. Our heraldry dictionary might be able to help.

A coat of arms was a personal possession and a matter of pride. No one but the knight himself had the right to bear the coat of arms, but he could pass it on to his descendants. Having the same name as someone does not automatically give you the right to use the coat of arms. If two noble families joined by marriage, their heraldry was combined by ‘quartering’. This is where the varying symbols featured on different parts of the shield.

Are Coats of Arms Linked to Surnames?

Historically, coats of arms were associated with individuals or specific family lines rather than everyone who shared a surname. Over time, some surnames became linked with historically recorded heraldic designs connected to early bearers of the name. This is why surname research remains so popular today.

Hall of Names specialises in surname history and historically recorded heraldic designs associated with surnames, with records covering over one million names.

Was there ever a coat of arms for your name?

Are you curious to know if your own name is connected to a medieval coat of arms? It’s free to check! Just type in your name at the top of this page today and start your journey of discovery into your surname. You can find out if there was ever heraldry connected to your surname and learn all about its early origins. With a coat of arms and surname history scroll, you can view the earliest heraldry for your name. Plus, it comes complete with a bibliography of sources on the reverse. With over a million surnames available, you might just uncover a fascinating piece of your family’s history.

Are coats of arms and family crests still used?

Today, we have moved on from the medieval period, and coat of arms are no longer used in the same way. However, many families retain their coat of arms as a symbol of their heritage and history. Some even choose to create their own version, incorporating modern elements that reflect their values and accomplishments. If you are interested in creating a coat of arms for your family, many designers specialise in creating unique and personalised designs. These must be sanctioned by the College of Arms in order to be used in any official capacity.

Do people have to be aristocratic to have coats of arms and family crests ?

Despite their historical significance, it’s essential to note that coat of arms are not exclusive to noble or aristocratic families. Anyone can create and use their own coat of arms as a symbol of their family’s identity and values. In today’s global society, a coat of arms can serve as an excellent way to celebrate your heritage and to connect with your family’s past.

See our short explainer video:

Quick Summary

• Coats of arms and family crests are related but not identical terms.
• Heraldry uses symbols, colours, and shields with historical meaning.
• Many surnames have links to early recorded heraldic designs.
• Heraldry remains popular for family history and meaningful gifts.
• Hall of Names researches surname history across more than one million names.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a family crest the same as a coat of arms?

Not exactly. A crest is one part of a full coat of arms, although many people use the term family crest for the whole design.

Why do coats of arms use animals?

Animals such as lions and eagles symbolised qualities like courage, strength, or authority.

Does every surname have a coat of arms?

No. Some surnames have historically recorded heraldic associations, while others may not have surviving formal records.

Can I explore heraldry linked to my surname?

Yes. Many people begin with surname history research and historically recorded heraldic references connected with early bearers of the name.

Why are coats of arms still popular today?

They connect people with history, identity, family stories, and decorative heritage gifts.

Discover the Heraldry Linked to Your Surname

If you would like to explore the earliest historically recorded coat of arms associated with your surname, Hall of Names offers personalised surname history prints, framed artwork, shields, glassware, and heritage gifts inspired by established heraldic records.

Browse the collection or search for your surname today.

The post The mysteries behind coats of arms and family crests appeared first on Hall of Names.

Many people ask ‘does everyone have a family crest.’ The simple answer is no. Historically, coats of arms and crests were associated with specific individuals or family lines rather than every surname. However, many surnames do have historically recorded heraldic designs linked to early bearers of the name. This guide explains how family crests developed, what they mean, and how to explore the heraldic history associated with your surname.

Family crests were originally used in Europe to identify knights in battle, but later became associated with specific families and their lineage. (We have more than a million names on our database and you can search for your name at the top of this page, or request a copy of its history).

Updated April 2026 with additional FAQs and guidance from Hall of Names.

Are they just for aristocracy?

It is true to say that heraldry is typically associated with aristocratic families, and crests were often granted by monarchs as a form of recognition or reward. In some countries, including the United Kingdom, their use of is regulated by law, and they can only be used by certain individuals who have been granted the right to do so. To find out more on this, visit the College of Arms.

The use of crests was not limited to aristocracy alone. In fact, many non-noble families also developed their own crests, especially in countries where heraldry was widely practiced. Over time, their use became more widespread, and they were often adopted by families in the middle classes. This was a way of asserting their social status and celebrating their heritage. Today, many families still use heraldry as a way of identifying and celebrating their history and traditions.

It’s worth noting that the use of family crests is not limited to Western culture. Many other cultures around the world have their own traditions of heraldry and family symbols, including Japan, China, and Korea, among others. In these cultures, family crests often have their own unique meanings and symbols that reflect the values and history of the family.

Additionally, the use of family crests has become less common over time, and many people today may choose to create their own personal symbols or logos instead of using a traditional family crest.

What are common designs for family crests?

As we’ve said, they were used historically as a way to identify individuals and families. So, the design of a crest would typically include symbols or motifs that had a personal or historical significance to the family. The most common images vary depending on the region and country, as different countries have different heraldic traditions. However, some of the most common symbols used include:

1. Lions: Lions are a popular symbol in heraldry, representing strength, courage, and leadership.
2. Eagles: Eagles are also a popular symbol, often representing nobility, freedom, and strength.
3. Crowns: Crowns are a symbol of royalty and power, often used in the crests of noble families.
4. Crosses: Crosses are a popular religious symbol and are often used in family crests.
5. Swords: Swords are a symbol of strength and often represent a family’s military history.
6. Shields: Shields are a common symbol in heraldry, often representing protection and defense.
7. Stars: Stars are a symbol of aspiration and hope, and are often used in family crests.

It’s important to note that family crests were used primarily by nobility and aristocracy, so the most popular ones may differ from those used by commoners. Although the use of family crests has largely fallen out of practice in modern times, they are still used by some families as a way of celebrating their heritage. To find out more about common symbols in heraldry, see our dictionary of symbols here. Also, check to see if there ever heraldry associated with your surname here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every surname have a family crest?

Not every surname has a historically recorded crest or coat of arms. Some surnames have several associated designs, while others may have none formally recorded.

Can two people with the same surname have different crests?

Yes. People sharing a surname may come from completely separate family lines and regions, so different heraldic designs may exist.

Is a family crest the same as a coat of arms?

Not exactly. A crest is one part of a coat of arms, although the phrase “family crest” is widely used for the whole design.

How can I explore heraldry linked to my surname?

Many people begin with surname history research and historically recorded heraldic references connected with early bearers of the name.

Discover the Heraldry Linked to Your Surname

If you would like to explore the earliest historically recorded coat of arms associated with your surname, Hall of Names offers surname history prints, framed artwork, shields, glassware, and personalised heritage gifts inspired by established heraldic records.

Browse our collection or search for your surname today by using the search box on any page..

The post Does everyone have a family crest? appeared first on Hall of Names.

Whoever thought up the notion of surnames? We take it for granted that each of us has an assigned family name which forms part of our identity and rarely consider that each name was chosen for a specific reason. Yet understanding those reasons can offer a fascinating insight into our family history. In England alone, there are more than 45,000 different surnames – each with a unique history to uncover. What is your surname origin?

We are extremely grateful to Abi Manning (derives from ‘maningi’, meaning valiant or strong) of Mole Valley Farmers for providing this article. Like Hall of Names, Mole Valley Farmers is a business that is based in the West Country. They are a leading agricultural supply business spanning the length of Britain (like we do). The company puts excellent customer care at the heart of the business, an ethos we fully support! . Plus, we love to work with and support fellow businesses in our region. Thank you to Abi and Mole Valley Farmers for their help in contributing this fascinating article.

Why do we have surnames?

Anglo-Saxon communities were small enough that surnames were not needed, although nicknames based on physical attributes or paternity were commonly assigned as an identifier. Examples include the likes of Goduuinus Wachefet (Godwine Weak-feet) or Cuthbert Edmund’s Son (Cuthbert, son of Edmund).

It was after the Norman Conquest in Britain, when the population increased and more and more people began to live in communities, that surname origins as we know them came into existence. As evidenced in the Domesday Book, they were initially used only by the nobility and gentry but soon disseminated to the rest of the population (most English people had one by around 1400). The old nicknames fell out of fashion and were largely lost, whereas many Norman-assigned names still survive today.

What’s happened since then?

New surnames continued to crop up after the Norman invasion and the increase in immigration over the following years introduced a variety of yet more new names to the nation. Irish, Highland Scottish and Welsh names are largely derived from Gaelic personal names and the union of England and Wales in 1536 saw the latter adopt the English system of surnames. Given the evolving nature of names and their origins, the road isn’t always clear for surname explorers investigating their ancestry. Multiple surname origins can cause a stumbling block: for example, Cowell could be Irish (son of battle chief), Gaelic (son of Saint Comhghal) or English (either from the place name Cowhill or a variant on the name Cole).

Spelling can also cause confusion. Intentional amendments, lack of literacy or simple evolution have caused variation over time. Significant changes also occurred in the 19th century due to the introduction of standardised spelling.

Seven categories of surname origin commonly found in the UK

Where does yours fit?

Ancestral – Les Dawson

Often given to sons of important figures in the community, male-derived (patronymic) names include the likes of Jackson (son of Jack).

Female derived (matronymic)

Names such as Emmott (from Emma) tended to be appointed to the daughters of unwed or widowed mothers.

Scottish ancestral clan names

Names including Douglas and MacDonald, also endure. Andrews, Anderson, Benson, Davidson, Dawson, Hampson, Harrison, Jefferson, Peterson, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Simpson, Thompson, Williams, Wilson. (Is your surname origin Scottish? Read about our clan histories here).

Geography – Victoria Wood

This rather romantic naming method suggests the surroundings in which one’s ancestors lived (Brook, Forest). Bridge, Burn, Bush, Field, Hill, Holt, Knill, Moore, Perry, Stone, Wood.

Patronage – Bill Hickman

Names that honour a patron include the likes of Kilpatrick (follower of Patrick) and Hickman (Richard’s man). Other examples of this surname origin are Palfreyman, Putman and Rickman

Occupation – Karen Carpenter

High-flyers of the 11th century were given names to signify their important role (Bishop, Mayor). Later this stretched to craftspeople and other occupations. For example, occupational surnames include Mason, Potter, Farmer, Archer, Baker, Carpenter, Cook, Cooper, Fletcher, Gardener, Knight, Major, Monk, Piper, Pope, Smith, Squire, Taylor, Wright. Is this you?

Characteristic – Thomas Hardy

Similar to the Anglo-Saxon practice of nicknames, these reflect a personality trait or physical feature (Short, Strong). For example, surnames of this origin include Black, Little, Peacock, Red, Russell, Swift, White are also characteristic names.

Place – Richard Burton

Where a person lived, worked, owned land or was born can be reflected in a surname. Some are obvious (London, Burton) but others reflect an old English place name or a more specific location (Appleton – apple orchard). Other names are for example Bedford, Bristow, Duffield, Hamilton, Hampshire, Preston, and Thorpe

Estate – Elizabeth Windsor

From a land-owning lineage? Many think those with a surname relating to an estate were attempting to strengthen their claim to the land. Name examples include Staunton and Windsor.

(Read our blog on the hidden meaning of surnames here).

Modern mayhem

Surnames are still evolving today as people bend tradition and create new ways of identifying themselves to others. The patriarchal name passed down the family line is increasingly being eschewed in favour of creating double barrelled names. Alternatively, entirely new surname origins arise when two people in a couple blend their surnames, fro example combining O’Dowd and Porter to become O’Porter. Also it is more popular to retain a maiden name or acquire a woman’s surname instead of a man’s. Future generations attempting to uncover their family history will see a fascinating snapshot of the nature of surname identity when uncovering the varied name choices of their ancestors from the 20th and 21st centuries.

International affairs – surname origins around the globe.

In Somalia, children have no family name but are given three personal names: their own name, their father’s name, and their paternal grandfather’s name.

In Afghanistan, people traditionally have only a first name. Last names will very occasionally be given which relate to place of birth, tribe, profession or honorific quality.

In China, family names precede a person’s given name. Around 70 per cent of the Chinese population have one of just 15 family names, which include Pan, Cheng and Tang.

In Russia, names have three parts: a given name, a patronymic middle name and the father’s surname.

Surnames: a protected species

On the brink of extinction (just a handful left)

Miracle, Relish, Birdwhistle

Endangered (under 200 left)

Ajax, Gastrell, Slora

Missing, presumed extinct

Bread, Spinster, Bythesea

To discover more about your own surname, click here to view our coat of arms and surname history scroll. It’s so easy to check for your name by entering it in our free family name search at the top of the page. A surname scroll makes the ideal personalised gift for any occasion, and there are many other stunning gifts available to browse here.

The post Unearthing the Origin of Your Surname appeared first on Hall of Names.

We have been working hard in the past few months to put the new website together, and have created a ‘shop window’ which reflects the quality and range of the personalised gifts with coats of arms.  We hope you like the changes we have made. So, here are just a few of the things you can expect to find on the new website:

Great photography

We have some gorgeous new images of our product lines, taken by a specialist company local to our headquarters in West Somerset. This basically means that you will now be able to see a variety of photographs of your chosen personalised gift. Plus, you will often get an idea of how that gift looks in a home setting. Above all, we hope you like the new photographs!

New products

We have some gorgeous new products to show you, but don’t worry – our favourites from the old site are still available. Both our coat of arms and surname history print and our double coat of arms print remains our most popular gifts. Each scroll contains a wealth of information about your chosen name. Furthermore, you now you have more framing options! We have our favourites of a gold frame, and mahogany-effect with gold inlay. However we have added two further options. Customers told us that they wanted more modern choices too, so we have chosen two lovely new styles. These are are oak effect, and dark wood-effect. We hope you like them and they make great gifts, as ever.

Plus, we have added some completely new items, which make fantastic personalised gifts for the home. For example, check out our new range of slate gifts, including wall clocks and slate hours signs. Both of these gifts make a lovely addition to any home. They are produced by an independent company in Lancashire, with the highest standards of craftsmanship. Furthermore, each gift has your chosen coat of arms expertly engraved. The slate is hand crafted to the highest standards and we have carefully chosen a UK-based independent business to create these lovely new gifts. The clocks are available in in a square style or round, to suit your personal taste, or that of the gift recipient. Make a real statement in any home!

If you would like to purchase a personalised an engraved slate gift, but would prefer something for the table, then the slate sign could be just the thing for you. We have two choices of style, which are round and rectangular. Both of these are available in the extra large size, and the rectangular style is also available as a medium size option. Perfect for everyday use, or to impress at a dinner party.

Similarly, we have a new range of wooden platters with coats of arms, which are a great centrepiece in any kitchen.  All of these gifts are available in a variety of size and style options on our new website, with prices varying accordingly. For example, the wooden platters come in round, or rectangular styles. There is a ‘paddle’ style also available, with rope attached to the end of the handle to create an easy storage option. We have chosen quality with value, and would welcome your feedback on these new lines!

We hope you like all of our new gifts, and do keep a lookout for further lines. We have lots of new and exciting plans for the coming months. Choose Hall of Names’ new website for all your special occasion gifts!

Easier navigation on our new website

We have improved the usability of our new website and you will now find your personalised gifts easier to find. As usual, you will be able to look for your chosen surname using our search facility at the top of each page. If you are looking for a specific gift, we have a search option available at the top right of each page. Simply type in what you are looking for and you will be shown all items relating to your search.

We have a ‘shop all products’ header, from where each of our gifts can be further specified by type. The types are prints and scrolls, crystal and glass, shields and wall plaques, and gifts. If you are looking for a gift to suit a particular budget, we have added a handy price slider. This enables you to specify the amount you are happy to spend. Our aim is to make shopping with Hall of Names as easy as possible.

New crystal collections

We have added new lines to our stunning range of personalised crystal so that you can start and add to your collection. Also perfect for weddings and anniversary gifts, with the option of personal engraving available on each glass. Our collections are as follows:

Mayfair collection: Stylish choice with a traditional, diamond-cut design, creating a gift to treasure. Choices available are whisky tumblers, wine glasses, champagne / prosecco flutes, and hi-ball glasses.

Verona collection: A modern ‘wave’ pattern appears around the base of each glass, to create an eye-catching, sparkling gift. Choices available are whisky tumblers, wine glasses, champagne / prosecco flutes, and hi-ball glasses.

Blenheim collection: The Blenheim collection is truly stunning, and created from lead-crystal to give a heavier feel to each glass. The style is a traditional diamond-cut design with central engraving panel for your chosen coat of arms. The collection contains whisky tumblers, wine glasses, champagne / prosecco flutes and hi-ball glasses, as the other collections do. However, the Blenheim collection also includes brandy glasses, a decanter, and a stunning wine gift set. This celebration set is a perfect gift for a special occasion. You have the option of a bottle of red or white Richelieu.

More than just a gift website

As recognised specialists in surname histories, we have also included loads of useful information on the site. Ideal for family history enthusiasts! Our blog section has categories which we hope you will enjoy browsing. Many of these contain links to useful sites which may help with your research. We have included many posts from our archive, but do look out for future blog posts.  We will be keeping it regularly updated with news, special offers and useful information.

Blog categories

Our existing categories are as follows: Celtic roots, family celebrations and weddings, Hall of Names information, heraldry, and  historical events. Plus read in the news, Irish family history, migration to the new world, our retailers, personalised crystal, the meaning of surnames and tracing family history. We love to hear your thoughts and feedback, If you read a blog post, please do share your opinions with us.

Useful pages

We have retained our useful dictionary of heraldry symbols and what they mean. This is a useful free resource, allowing you to add extra background to your knowledge of the heraldry relating to your chosen surname. If you click on the where to find us page of our new website, you’ll see that we have created a map of our retailers. There is also a useful list of any shows that our independent retailers are attending.

And finally…

On balance, we hope you like our new website and have fun looking through all of the resources and personalised gifts available. It not only provides great gifts, but also tons of useful resources, articles and links. Whether you are researching your family tree, or looking for that special present, we are here to help! We always love to hear what you think, so please do provide feedback and if you have purchased a gift, we’d love to hear your reviews. Don’t forget that you can also do this via our Facebook page. By using Hall of Names, you are supporting an independent, family-run UK business, and we truly appreciated your custom. We look forward to hearing from you! Be sure to visit our shop for a whole range of fantastic gifts that are sure to impress.

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