Meaning of the Berner family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Berner coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
Berner name meaning and origin
Berner is a surname of European origin, primarily found in Germany and Switzerland. It is a topographic name for someone who lived in Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. The name Berner means 'citizen of Bern'. It could also be an occupational name for a keeper of bears, derived from the Middle High German word 'ber', meaning bear.
History of family crests like the Berner 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.
Berner name variations and their meaning
The family name Berner has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Germany, it is commonly spelled as "Berne" or "Berner," while in Switzerland, it can be seen as "Bärner" or "Bärn." In France, the name is often written as "Berné" or "Bernier," while in Italy, it may appear as "Berneri" or "Bernero." These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the Berner family. Over time, as families moved and settled in different countries, the spelling and pronunciation of their surname evolved to adapt to the local language and customs. Despite the variations, the core identity of the Berner family remains intact, connecting individuals across borders and generations. Whether spelled as Berner, Berne, Bärner, Berné, or any other variation, the name represents a shared heritage and a sense of belonging for those who bear it.
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
