Meaning of the Duarte 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.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Duarte 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.
Duarte name meaning and origin
Duarte is a Portuguese and Spanish surname that originated from the given name Duarte, which means "guardian of prosperity" or "protector of wealth."
History of family crests like the Duarte 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.
Duarte name variations and their meaning
The family name Duarte has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Spain, it is commonly spelled as Duarte, while in Portugal, it is often written as Duardo. In Brazil, the name is sometimes modified to Duarti or Duartes. These variations reflect the diverse influences and linguistic differences in each country. Additionally, there may be further alterations based on personal preferences or historical factors. For instance, in some cases, the surname may be hyphenated as Duarte-Silva or Duarte-Costa to incorporate the mother's maiden name or to distinguish between branches of the family. Furthermore, individuals with the surname Duarte may choose to modify the spelling or pronunciation to better suit the language or culture of the country they reside in. Overall, the variations of the family name Duarte highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and their ability to adapt and evolve over 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
