Meaning of the Bjerke family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
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 Bjerke 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Bjerke name meaning and origin
Bjerke is a Norwegian surname that means "birch tree" in English.
History of family crests like the Bjerke 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.
Bjerke name variations and their meaning
The family name Bjerke has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Bjørke, which is a Norwegian variant of the name. Another variation is Byerke, which is a less common spelling but still retains the same pronunciation. Additionally, there is the variation Bierke, which is a Germanized version of the name. This variation may have originated from individuals with the surname Bjerke who migrated to Germany and adapted their name to fit the local language. Another variation is Bjercke, which is a more anglicized spelling of the name. This variation may have been adopted by individuals who moved to English-speaking countries and wanted to simplify the pronunciation for non-Norwegian speakers. Overall, these variations of the family name Bjerke demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames as they evolve and change over time and across different cultures.
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
