| Category: Heraldry |
A Coat of Arms (sometimes erroneously referred to as a Family Crest) is a heraldic design, which originated in Europe. The designs vary greatly (with a complex system on how each is to be designed) but generally, an arms is made up of a Shield in the center (painted in various colors) with two animal or human figures, known as "Supporters", on each side. On top of the shield is a Helmet (the style of which reflects the bearer's rank) out of which comes the Crest (see photo for detail).