Meaning of the Reitz family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Reitz 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.
Reitz name meaning and origin
The family name Reitz means "counselor" or "advisor" in German. It is of occupational origin, indicating a person who provided guidance or advice in a professional setting. The name is typically associated with individuals who served as legal or spiritual advisors.
History of family crests like the Reitz 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.
Reitz name variations and their meaning
The family name Reitz has evolved over the centuries, resulting in various interesting variations across different countries. In Germany, variations such as Ritz and Rietz have emerged, reflecting changes in pronunciation and dialects throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. In the Netherlands, we see variations like Reitzema and Reitsema, which have developed as a result of regional influences and phonetic shifts during the 17th and 18th centuries. In America, the name has been further altered to Reitzenstein and Reitzen, showcasing the impact of immigration and cultural blending in the 19th and 20th centuries. These variations not only add depth to the family name Reitz but also highlight the rich linguistic history that has shaped it over the years.
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
