coatofarms

A coat of arms is a distinctive heraldic design associated with a person or entity, used for identification and symbolism. In heraldry, it forms part of a larger achievement that may include a shield (escutcheon), a helm, mantling, a crest, supporters, a motto, and an optional compartment.

The central element is the shield, which bears charges—symbols such as animals, devices, or geometric shapes—while colors and metals (tinctures) follow traditional rules to convey meaning.

Design follows the rule of tincture: metals (gold and silver) should not be placed on metals and colors should not be placed on colors. Common tinctures include gules (red), azure (blue), sable (black), vert (green), or/purpure (purple), and or/argent for gold and silver.

Heraldry began in medieval Europe to mark fighters and property, and it evolved into a formal system of identification, lineage, and prestige. Over time, the symbols and modes of display became standardized and codified, allowing arms to be inherited, granted, or assumed under certain conventions.

Today arms may be granted or inherited, and official heraldic authorities exist in several countries (for example, the College of Arms in England and Wales, the Lyon Court in Scotland, and analogous offices elsewhere). In modern use, coats of arms appear on seals, flags, and institutional branding, and may be used by individuals, families, municipalities, universities, and organizations, sometimes evolving through quartering to reflect marriages or alliances.