Map of England showing where the Chiarella arms are recorded
The Chiarella arms were recorded in England, c. 1620.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in York.
Yorkshire is the largest of the English counties, and it held more gentry families than any other. Land there was split among a great many households rather than a few, so a great many of them carried arms.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in England when the Chiarella arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of England.
Origin & History of the Chiarella Family in England
The name Chiarella originates from the Italian language, where it is derived from the word chiaro, meaning clear or bright. While the name is deeply rooted in Italian heritage, historical records confirm that members of the family were established in the city of York by 1620. During this period, York was a significant center for trade and religious activity, suggesting that early Chiarella settlers were likely involved in the city's growing merchant class or skilled trades. These early family members would have navigated a society transitioning through the Stuart era, adapting their Mediterranean roots to the distinct social and economic landscape of Northern England. Their presence in such a prominent historical city indicates that the family was well-integrated into the local community and contributed to the diverse cultural fabric of seventeenth-century Britain.
Chiarella Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Clarus
Latin term meaning clear, bright, or famous.
This name
ChiarellaA diminutive form indicating someone who is bright, clear, or illustrious.
also spelled
Caryll
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records
Palliser, D. M., Tudor York, 1979
Yelling, J. A., The Population of York in the Seventeenth Century, 1971
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
towerGrandeur and solidity, and a stronghold defended
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
towerGrandeur and solidity, and a stronghold defended
