If you have designed or inherited a family crest and are interested in making it official, you may be wondering how to certify your family crest. Certifying a family crest involves having it recognized and registered by an official heraldic authority, which can help to ensure that your family crest is recognized as a legitimate and official symbol of your family’s identity and heritage.
But how do you go about certifying your family crest? Here are a few steps to follow:
- Research heraldic authorities: The first step in certifying your family crest is to research heraldic authorities in your country or region. These authorities are responsible for recognizing and registering heraldic symbols, and they can provide guidance on how to certify your family crest. Some examples of heraldic authorities include the College of Arms in the United Kingdom and the American College of Heraldry in the United States.
- Submit your family crest for recognition: Once you have identified a heraldic authority in your country or region, the next step is to submit your family crest for recognition. This typically involves filling out a form and providing documentation and evidence to support your claim to the family crest. You may need to provide proof of your family’s history and ancestry, as well as any documentation or evidence supporting your family crest’s design and symbolism.
- Await the decision: After you have submitted your family crest for recognition, you will need to wait for a decision from the heraldic authority. This process can take some time, as the authority will need to review your submission and conduct any necessary research to determine the validity of your claim.
- Register your family crest: If your family crest is recognized and approved by the heraldic authority, the next step is to register your family crest. This typically involves paying a fee and submitting any necessary documentation. Once your family crest is registered, it becomes an official and recognized symbol of your family’s identity and heritage.
Certifying your family crest can be a rewarding and meaningful way to recognize and celebrate your family’s identity and heritage. By following these steps and working with an official heraldic authority, you can have your family crest recognized and registered as an official symbol of your family’s identity.