Meaning of the Kallas 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 Kallas coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Kallas name meaning and origin
Kallas is a surname of Estonian origin, often linked to the word for "lake" or "pond" in Estonian. It can signify a connection to water-based landscapes. Historically, it may have been used by families residing near such natural features, reflecting geographic roots.
History of family crests like the Kallas 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.
Kallas name variations and their meaning
Among the intriguing variations of the family name Kallas, we can observe diverse adaptations shaped by language and culture across different regions. In Estonia, the name often appears as Kallaste, which reflects a regional suffix that modifies the name for local phonetic preferences during the 17th century. Meanwhile, during the 18th century, in Finnish contexts, Kallas could transform into Kallash, a variation influenced by Finnish vowel harmony, emphasizing local dialects. The 19th century saw the name evolve into Kallast in parts of Sweden, likely due to the influence of Scandinavian naming patterns, where the suffix denotes a geographical connection. In neighboring Latvia, Kallāns emerged, showcasing how Slavic linguistic traits melded with Baltic traditions, especially in the wake of historical interactions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Each of these variations not only adds layers to the family name but also highlights its journey through the mosaic of European linguistic evolution.
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
