Meaning of the Van De Sande family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Van De Sande 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.
Van De Sande name meaning and origin
Van De Sande is a Dutch surname meaning "from the sand." It typically indicates a geographic origin related to sandy landscapes or environments. This name reflects the Dutch tradition of creating surnames based on landmarks, regions, or notable features of the landscape.
History of family crests like the Van De Sande 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.
Van De Sande name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Van De Sande can be fascinatingly diverse, reflecting regional linguistic influences and historical developments. In the 17th century, due to migration patterns, the name evolved into forms like Vandersande in parts of Belgium and the Netherlands, adapting to local dialects. By the 18th century, as families moved to English-speaking countries, the name transformed into Sanders or Sanderson, showing the influence of English phonetics. In the 19th century, particularly with the wave of Dutch immigrants to North America, spellings such as VanderSand or even Sandey emerged, merging traditional roots with contemporary English usage. Further, in the 20th century, regional accents and variations led to the adoption of names like Sande and Sandes in Scandinavian countries, illustrating how language and culture shape surnames across generations. Each variant not only reflects the linguistic evolution but also tells the story of migration and adaptation across borders.
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
