Gearty family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Gearty 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 Gearty 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.

Gearty name meaning and origin

Gearty is an anglicized form of the Irish surname "Ó Gairbhith," which means "descendant of Gairbhíth," a personal name meaning "rough peace."

History of family crests like the Gearty 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.

Gearty name variations and their meaning

The family name Gearty has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Geartie, which maintains the same pronunciation but adds an extra "e" at the end. This variation could have been a result of a spelling error or a deliberate change made by a family member. Another variation is Garty, which drops the "e" in the middle of the name. This alteration could have been influenced by regional accents or dialects. Additionally, some individuals may have chosen to simplify the name further by using the variation Gart. This shorter version could have been adopted for convenience or personal preference. It is interesting to note how these variations have evolved within different branches of the Gearty family, showcasing the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. These variations not only add diversity to the family name but also provide insight into the individuality and uniqueness of each family member.

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