Nartey family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Nartey family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

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 Nartey 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.

Nartey name meaning and origin

Nartey is a surname of Ghanaian origin, often associated with the Akan ethnic group. It typically signifies a connection to lineage or ancestry, reflecting the importance of family ties and heritage in Ghanaian culture. The name embodies a sense of identity and community.

History of family crests like the Nartey 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.

Nartey name variations and their meaning

The family name Nartey has seen intriguing variations across different regions and languages, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultural influences over the centuries. In 17th-century Ghana, for example, the name morphed into Narte, likely as a simplified version influenced by local dialects. By the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted, Nartey found adaptations in neighboring countries; in Nigeria, it transitioned into Nartay, incorporating local phonetic preferences. Moving into the 19th century, the name was further altered in English-speaking territories, giving rise to variations like Nartie, which demonstrated a trend toward phonetic spelling to match pronunciation. In the Caribbean, where many Ghanaians migrated in the 20th century, Nartey transformed into Nartey-Mourice, merging with surnames common in the region. Each variation encapsulates a unique narrative of linguistic evolution, cultural exchange, and the personal histories that individuals bring to their family names.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: