Meaning of the Carston 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Carston 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.
Carston name meaning and origin
The family name Carston has English origins, often synonymous with a descriptive term meaning "the town of the marsh." It suggests a geographic connection, indicating that ancestors may have lived near low-lying or wetland areas. The name reflects a historical landscape association.
History of family crests like the Carston 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.
Carston name variations and their meaning
Throughout the centuries, the name Carston has evolved into various forms that reflect the linguistic and cultural influences of different regions. In the 18th century, English speakers began to favor variations like Carson, which added a more phonetic twist to the original, likely influenced by the Gaelic surname MacCarson. Moving into the 19th century, as migration patterns changed, variations such as Karsten emerged in Germany and Scandinavia, showcasing both the Germanic roots and the adaptation of names to local pronunciation. By the 20th century, the name saw a rise in popularity with the transformation into surnames like Karstens in Dutch-speaking regions, indicating a trend toward regional suffixes that resonate with local customs. Across these variations, the name has not only maintained its familial ties but has also reflected the history and dynamics of language in changing societies.
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
