Harvie family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Harvie 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.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Harvie 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.

Red

The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Harvie name meaning and origin

Harvie is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the personal name "Herve," which means warrior or army. It is often associated with strength and valor. The name has evolved over generations and may also reflect regional ties to areas in Scotland where it was commonly found.

History of family crests like the Harvie 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.

Harvie name variations and their meaning

Exploring the name Harvie reveals a fascinating tapestry of variations that have evolved across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In the 17th century, the name appeared in Scotland as Harvie, which later influenced the emergence of Harviee in parts of England, showcasing the linguistic shifts that occurred due to regional dialects. Meanwhile, the French adaptation of this name emerged as Hervé, signifying how the influence of French-speaking regions in the 14th century transformed its spelling and pronunciation. As the 18th century rolled in, immigration patterns carried the name across the Atlantic, where it took root in the United States, yielding forms such as Harvey and Harvie, reflecting American phonetic preferences. In Scandinavia, the name saw a different evolution altogether, adopting the form Harvi in the 19th century as a result of local phonological shifts and cultural integration, while the Irish variant O'Harvey surfaced during the same time, indicating a blend of Gaelic influences. Additionally, in contemporary Australia and New Zealand, the name Harvie has inspired modern adaptations like Harvies, showcasing not only familial connections but also an Australian twist on a traditional name structure. Each variation, with its unique historical and linguistic backdrop, further underscores the rich heritage and enduring appeal of this family name across different societies.

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