Amsterdam family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Amsterdam family crest symbols

Torse

The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Amsterdam coat of arms colors

Silver

The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.

Yellow/Gold

The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.

Amsterdam name meaning and origin

The surname Amsterdam is of European origin, particularly from the Netherlands. The name is derived from the city of Amsterdam, which was named after the Amstel River. The meaning of the name Amsterdam is believed to be "dam on the Amstel," referring to the dam that was built on the river in the 12th century. The name Amsterdam signifies a connection to the city and its history.

History of family crests like the Amsterdam coat of arms

Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.

The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.

Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.

Amsterdam name variations and their meaning

Amsterdam is a family name that has various spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. One common variation is "Amsterdamer," which is often associated with individuals who have Dutch ancestry. Another variation is "Amsterdahl," which is more commonly found in Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Norway. This variation suggests a possible connection to the city of Amsterdam, but it could also be a coincidence. Additionally, there is the variation "Amster," which is a shorter form of the name and can be found in different parts of the world. It is interesting to note how the spelling and pronunciation of the name can change depending on the cultural context. These variations highlight the diverse nature of family names and how they can evolve over time and across different regions. Whether it is Amsterdamer, Amsterdahl, or Amster, each variation adds a unique touch to the family name Amsterdam.

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