Heraldry is the practice of designing and displaying coats of arms and other insignia. It has a long and fascinating history, and there are many different types of heraldry to explore. Here are just a few of the different kinds of heraldry that you might encounter:
- Family heraldry: This is perhaps the most well-known type of heraldry, and it refers to the coats of arms that are used by aristocratic families to represent their heritage and identity. These heraldic symbols typically consist of a shield, helmet, and crest, and they are emblazoned with various designs and colors that represent the history and values of the family.
- State heraldry: The design of a country’s coat of arms often reflects its history, culture, and values. In some countries, the coat of arms is an official symbol of the government and is used on official documents and buildings
- Municipal heraldry: Just like families, cities and towns also have their own coats of arms, which represent the history and values of the community. These coats of arms are often displayed on everything from city hall to local schools and libraries.
- Military heraldry: Many military units, such as regiments and battalions, also have their own heraldic symbols. These symbols are typically used to represent the history and traditions of the unit, and they are often displayed on flags, uniforms, and other insignia.
- Corporate heraldry: Many businesses and organizations also have their own coats of arms or other heraldic symbols. These symbols are often used to represent the company’s values and mission, and they are often displayed on company logos, marketing materials, and other promotional items.
- Ecclesiastical heraldry: Many religious organizations, such as churches and monasteries, also have their own heraldic symbols. These symbols are often used to represent the history and values of the organization, and they are often displayed on buildings, vestments, and other items.
- Personal heraldry: In addition to being used by families, coats of arms can also be used by individuals as a way to represent their own personal identity. This type of heraldry is often used by people who are interested in their family history or who want to celebrate their own unique heritage.
If you’re interested in creating your own family crest or coat of arms, there are several online resources available that can help you design and customize your own heraldic symbol. One such resource is CoaMaker, a user-friendly heraldry generator that allows you to create your own unique crest or coat of arms using a variety of templates and design elements.
