Himmelfarb family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Himmelfarb family crest symbols

Star

The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

Cross

The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.

Meaning of the Himmelfarb 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Himmelfarb name meaning and origin

Himmelfarb is a Jewish surname of Yiddish origin, meaning "heavenly" or "of heaven." It commonly reflects a spiritual or religious heritage, denoting a connection to Jewish traditions and values. The name can also signify a family's hopeful or aspirational nature.

History of family crests like the Himmelfarb 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.

Himmelfarb name variations and their meaning

Himmelfarb has evolved in various intriguing ways across different cultures and languages. In the 19th century, some variations emerged as families migrated, leading to adaptations like Himmelberg in Germany, where "berg" refers to a mountain, reflecting local geography. In the early 20th century, the name transformed into Himmelstein in Eastern Europe, likely influenced by the Yiddish language, which often incorporated elements from Hebrew and German. Crossing the Atlantic to America in the 20th century, one might encounter variations like Himmler or Himelfarb, where phonetic spelling changes were common as immigrants sought to integrate while retaining their heritage. In contemporary times, the variations can also reflect modern trends, such as shortening or anglicizing names for ease of pronunciation or assimilation, showcasing the dynamic nature of family names through the centuries.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: