Meaning of the Carlquist 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 - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Carlquist 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.

Carlquist name meaning and origin
Carlquist is a surname of Scandinavian origin, particularly Swedish. It derives from the given name Karl, meaning "man" or "free man," combined with the suffix "-quist," indicating a descendant or familial connection. The name reflects heritage and lineage, often associated with strength and nobility.

History of family crests like the Carlquist 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.

Carlquist name variations and their meaning
Throughout history, the family name Carlquist has seen a fascinating array of variations that reflect the linguistic and cultural shifts across different regions. In Scandinavia, for instance, the name has evolved into Karlqvist and Karlson, with the suffixes denoting lineage and patronymic origins becoming popular in the 17th century. Moving into the 18th century, as migration patterns altered, variants like Carlquistsson emerged in areas influenced by trade and interaction with German-speaking communities. In the 19th century, English-speaking countries witnessed adaptations such as Carlquest or Carlis, reflecting phonetic simplifications and anglicization as families sought to integrate into new environments. Moreover, in regions where Slavic languages were predominant, variations like Karlkovich might emerge, showcasing a blend of cultural influences and adaptations to local grammar conventions. This interplay of language and culture through time underscores the rich tapestry of the Carlquist family name and its enduring legacy across generations and borders.

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