Meaning of the Riegelman family crest symbols
Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
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 Riegelman 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.
Riegelman name meaning and origin
Riegelman is a surname of German origin, likely derived from the Middle High German word "riegel," meaning "bar" or "obstacle." It may refer to someone living near a barrier or a strip of land, reflecting geographical or topographical features.
History of family crests like the Riegelman 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.
Riegelman name variations and their meaning
The family name Riegelman, while rooted in a specific linguistic tradition, has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and time periods. In the 16th century, as communities in German-speaking regions began to adapt to shifting social structures, the name morphed into Rieglemann in some instances, reflecting local dialect influences and the tendency to blend family surnames with regional identifiers. Meanwhile, the 18th century brought about the Anglicization of surnames, leading to variations such as Rigelman in English-speaking countries, where phonetic shifts rendered the name more palatable to English speakers. Fast forward to the 19th century, during the waves of immigration to the Americas, Riegelman transformed further into Ringelman among those seeking to integrate into their new environments, showcasing the adaptability of surnames to accommodate new linguistic landscapes. In contrast, in regions like Eastern Europe, especially during the early 20th century, the name took on Slavic components, and variations such as Ziegelman emerged, reflecting both local pronunciation and the sociopolitical changes of the time. Thus, the evolution of Riegelman illustrates a rich tapestry of cultural interchange and linguistic adaptation, revealing how a single name can tell a story that traverses continents and centuries.
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
