Meaning of the Stelly 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.
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 Stelly 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.
Stelly name meaning and origin
The family name Stelly is of French origin and is believed to be derived from the Old French personal name Estelle, meaning "star."
History of family crests like the Stelly 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.
Stelly name variations and their meaning
The family name Stelly has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it may be spelled as Stelley or Stellie, while in others, it could be Stellé or Stelli. These variations might be influenced by factors such as regional dialects, phonetic differences, or even personal preferences. The name Stelly can also be found with different prefixes or suffixes, such as McStelly or Stellyson, which could indicate specific family lineages or historical connections. Additionally, the name might have undergone changes over time due to immigration or migration patterns, resulting in further variations. It is fascinating to observe how a single family name can evolve and adapt across different communities and generations. These variations not only add diversity to the name but also reflect the rich tapestry of human history and the interconnectedness of families across the globe.
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
