Meaning of the De Sales 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 De Sales 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.
De Sales name meaning and origin
The family name De Sales has French and Spanish origins, typically associated with regions around the town of Sales. It signifies "of the sales," potentially linked to historical occupations or geographical features, and carries connotations of nobility, tradition, and cultural significance in European heritage.
History of family crests like the De Sales 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 Sales name variations and their meaning
Among the intriguing variations of the family name De Sales, one can observe forms such as Sales, Del Sales, and Salez, showcasing the adaptability of the name across different cultures and languages. In the 17th century, as Spanish explorers spread through the Americas, the name evolved into variations like Salas, particularly in regions influenced by Spanish colonization. In contrast, during the 18th century, the rise of the French influence in North America contributed to variations such as DeSalle, which reflected the unique linguistic characteristics of the region. Meanwhile, in Italy, the name transformed into De Salis, reflecting the softer phonetics of the Italian language, which gained prominence in the 19th century. Each variation carries with it a distinct cultural flavor, stemming from local linguistic practices and historical contexts that shaped the name's journey through time.
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
