1. Family Crest Designs

2. In all ages and in all quarters of the world distinguishing symbols, or family crests have been adopted by tribes or nations, by families or by chieftains.

3. Greek and Roman poets describe the devices borne on the shields of heroes, and many such painted shields are pictured on antique vases.

4. In the East we have such ancient symbols as the five- clawed dragon of the Chinese empire and the chrysanthemum of the emperor of Japan.

5. In Japan, indeed, the systematized badges borne by the noble clans may be regarded as akin to the heraldry and family crests of the West.

6. Before the landing of the Spaniards in Mexico the Aztec chiefs carried shields and banners, some of whose devices showed after the fashion of a phonetic writing the names of their bearers

7. Interpreting the Coat of Arms The basic component of a coat of arms is the shield. Although the Medieval shield is perhaps the best-known shape, it is not the only one that was used. The shield was a warlike device and was often considered inappropriate for women or clergy. Thus, members of those groups often selected a different shape.

9. Student Sample

10. Requirements: - All components of a Family Crest. (8 separate pieces) - Personalization to reflect yourself. - Motto or personal belief statement.