Meaning of the Artiaga 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 Artiaga 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.
Artiaga name meaning and origin
The surname Artiaga has Basque origins, commonly associated with individuals from the Basque Country in Spain. It signifies a connection to the region's rich cultural heritage and history, often tying families to their ancestral lands and traditions, embodying a sense of identity and belonging.
History of family crests like the Artiaga 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.
Artiaga name variations and their meaning
Various adaptations of the family name Artiaga can be observed across different cultures and historical contexts, showcasing the evolution of surnames through time. In 17th-century Spain, the name might have been spelled Arteaga, reflecting regional dialectal influences that altered pronunciation and writing. In Mexico, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, the name could have transformed into Artiaga or Artiega, adapting to local phonetics and spelling conventions while being influenced by indigenous languages. Moving to the 20th century, in the United States, surnames such as Artiago emerged as immigrants anglicized their names for ease of pronunciation and integration, leading to a rich tapestry of variations. Furthermore, in parts of Colombia, individuals might encounter the name Artiga, which shows further simplification and regional adaptation, illustrating how language progression and cultural interactions over centuries have contributed to the diversity of the Artiaga name.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
