Meaning of the Clavette 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.
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 Clavette coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Clavette name meaning and origin
Clavette is a surname of French origin, typically derived from the word "clavette," meaning a small key. It often signifies a connection to locksmithing or the concept of unlocking potential. The name embodies themes of security, access, and familial ties across generations.
History of family crests like the Clavette 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.
Clavette name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Clavette can be fascinating when we explore their linguistic transformations across different regions and centuries. In the 14th century, the name began to morph in France, leading to the variant Clavet, which was influenced by local dialects and regional speech patterns. Moving into the 17th century, as the name traveled to English-speaking regions, it evolved into Clavett, reflecting the phonetic shifts typical of English pronunciation. By the 19th century, in communities where French heritage thrived, such as parts of Canada, Clavette was often spelled Clavet, intertwining with local naming conventions. The 20th century saw additional adaptations like Clavette-Leblanc and Clavette-Chauvin, revealing a trend of hyphenation that was not only popular but also indicative of familial connections and lineage recognition. Hence, the variations of Clavette showcase a rich tapestry of cultural and linguistic evolution that resonates through the ages.
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
