Meaning of the Beales family crest symbols

Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.

Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Beales 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.
Beales name meaning and origin
Beales is an English surname of Norman origin, derived from the Old French word "béal," meaning a ravine or small valley. It historically indicated someone who lived near such a geographical feature. The name has various spellings and is associated with regions in England.
History of family crests like the Beales 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.
Beales name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Beales can be quite fascinating, reflecting linguistic and cultural adaptations over time. In the 17th century, the name began to take on forms like Beal and Beall in England, which showcased the tendency to simplify spellings as language evolved. Moving into the 18th century, as migration patterns emerged, the name saw adaptations in North America, resulting in surnames like Bealeson and Bealston, merging with local naming conventions. In France, during the same period, similar phonetic shifts led to variations like Béal, a manifestation of regional dialects influencing the name's pronunciation and spelling. By the 19th century, in Australia, the name adapted yet again to Bealley, reflecting a common trend of attaching common suffixes in English-speaking contexts. These alterations illustrate the dynamic nature of names, shaped by geography, culture, and time, enriching the narrative of the Beales lineage.
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
