Meaning of the Berkery 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.
Rose
The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.
Meaning of the Berkery 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.
Berkery name meaning and origin
The family name Berkery is of European origin and its meaning is derived from the Old English word "beorc" meaning birch tree and the Old Norse word "ey" meaning island. This suggests that the name may have originally referred to someone who lived near a birch tree or on a land surrounded by birch trees.
History of family crests like the Berkery 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.
Berkery name variations and their meaning
The family name Berkery has various spellings and variations across different regions and time periods. These variations include Berkey, Barkery, Barkley, Berkley, and Berkey. Each spelling variation may have emerged due to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, or even personal preference.
The spelling Berkey is commonly found in the United States, particularly in Pennsylvania and Ohio. This variation may have originated from German or Dutch influences, as these cultures often used the "ey" ending in surnames. On the other hand, the spelling Barkery is less common but could be a result of a phonetic shift or a misspelling over time.
Barkley and Berkley are variations that are often associated with English or Scottish origins. These spellings are more prevalent in the United Kingdom and the United States. The variation Berkey, with the absence of the "r," is also found in some English-speaking countries.
Overall, the variations of the family name Berkery demonstrate the diverse ways in which surnames can evolve and adapt over time and across different regions.
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