Meaning of the Gerhardt family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
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 Gerhardt 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.
Gerhardt name meaning and origin
Gerhardt is a German surname that originated as a given name meaning "brave spear" or "strong spear." It is derived from the Old High German elements "ger" meaning spear and "hard" meaning brave or strong.
History of family crests like the Gerhardt 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.
Gerhardt name variations and their meaning
The family name Gerhardt has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Gerhart, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Gerhard, which drops the second "t" and is a more streamlined version of the name. Additionally, there is the variation Gerhardson, which adds the suffix "-son" to indicate "son of Gerhard." This variation is often seen in Scandinavian countries where patronymic surnames are common. Another variation is Gerhardi, which adds the suffix "-i" to the name. This variation is often found in Eastern European countries. Lastly, there is the variation Gerhardy, which adds the suffix "-y" to the name. This variation is often seen in English-speaking countries and is a more anglicized version of the name. These variations of the family name Gerhardt demonstrate how names can evolve and adapt over time, reflecting the cultural and linguistic influences of different regions.
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
