Meaning of the Tellez 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 Tellez 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.
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.
Tellez name meaning and origin
The surname Tellez has Spanish origins, derived from the given name Tello, which itself is a diminutive of Matías. It is often associated with families from regions in Spain, particularly in the Basque Country. Tellez signifies a lineage connected to noble ancestry and historical significance.
History of family crests like the Tellez 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.
Tellez name variations and their meaning
There are several intriguing variations of the family name Tellez that showcase its linguistic evolution across different cultures. For instance, in the late 19th century, the name began to appear as Téllez in Mexico, adopting an accent mark that reflects the Spanish language’s nuanced phonetics. Meanwhile, in the United States during the late 20th century, anglicized versions like Telles gained traction as families sought to blend into the American cultural landscape. In various parts of Central America, notably in Nicaragua during the 21st century, the surname has been witnessed in forms such as Téllez-Medina, indicating the merging of family lineages. Furthermore, in the context of late 19th to early 20th century immigration patterns, the name has sometimes been found with an Italian twist as Tellini, as some Tellez families settled in Italy and adapted their names to fit local linguistic traits. These variations not only highlight the name's geographical and cultural adaptability but also its profound historical context across the 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
