Meaning of the Bloch 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.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Bloch 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.
Bloch name meaning and origin
The surname Bloch has Jewish origins, deriving from the Yiddish word for "a block" or "a stone." It may have been used to refer to someone living near a large stone or a rocky place. The name is common among Ashkenazi Jews.
History of family crests like the Bloch 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.
Bloch name variations and their meaning
One intriguing variation of the family name Bloch is Blochowicz, commonly found in Poland, which adds a Slavic suffix that denotes lineage, reflecting the name's adaptation in the 19th century as Polish society embraced more localized forms of surnames. In contrast, during the late 17th and 18th centuries, the name evolved into De Bloch in France, showcasing a trend towards aristocratic titles as families sought to elevate their status through noble associations. Moving into the German-speaking world, the name often appeared as Blochmann in the 19th century, where the use of the "-mann" suffix emphasizes a sense of locality and occupation, creating a connection to the community. Another variation, Blochfeld, emerged in the 16th century in regions influenced by Germanic languages, where "feld" refers to a field, indicating the geographical landscape that shaped many surnames. Each iteration not only showcases linguistic evolution but also highlights the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the Bloch heritage across regions and centuries.
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
