De Rivera family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the De Rivera 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.

Roundel

The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.

Meaning of the De Rivera 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.

De Rivera name meaning and origin

The family name De Rivera is of Spanish origin, meaning "of the river." It often signifies geographical ties to riverbanks or settlements near water bodies. De Rivera families typically trace their roots back to regions in Spain, indicating a rich cultural heritage linked to their ancestral lands.

History of family crests like the De Rivera 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.

De Rivera name variations and their meaning

De Rivera has given rise to several intriguing variations across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 16th century, the Spanish influence saw the emergence of De Riva, which combines local phonetics with an elegant simplicity, often found in regions like Catalonia and Valencia. The name further transformed in Latin American countries during the 18th and 19th centuries, where it frequently became Rivera, reflecting a common adaptation in the Spanish-speaking world. As a result of migration patterns in the 19th and 20th centuries, one can encounter variations such as Riviere in France or De Rivière in Quebec, tracing the family's journey through linguistic shifts. Additionally, anglicized forms like River are often seen in the United States, particularly during the 20th century, illustrating how names evolve uniquely as they traverse cultural boundaries. Each variation tells a story of migration, adaptation, and the rich tapestry of language that shapes our understanding of identity.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: