1. Shield: The central element, often divided into sections (fields) to display different charges.
2. Charges: The specific symbols or figures placed on the shield, such as animals, plants, objects, or geometric shapes.
3. Tinctures: The colors used in the coat of arms, often described with specific terms like "azure" (blue), "gules" (red), "or" (gold), "argent" (silver), "vert" (green), "sable" (black), and "purpure" (purple).
4. Crest: A figure placed above the shield, often a helmet or other symbol.
5. Supporters: Figures placed on either side of the shield, usually animals or human figures.
6. Motto: A short phrase or saying often placed below the shield, expressing the bearer's virtues or beliefs.
7. External Ornaments: These can include things like a coronet (crown), a helmet, and mantling (a drapery that hangs from the helmet).
Examples of Coat of Arms Elements:
* Charges: Lions, eagles, dragons, fleurs-de-lis, stars, crosses, swords, shields, and more.
* Tinctures: Red, blue, gold, silver, green, black, purple.
* Crest: A lion's head, a bird in flight, a helmet, a crown.
* Supporters: Lions, griffins, angels, human figures.
* Motto: "For God and Country," "Loyal and True," "Be Strong."
Here are some visual examples:
* British Royal Arms: You can see the shield with its lion and unicorn supporters, a royal crown, and a motto.
* Coat of Arms of the United States: Features a shield with stripes and stars, an eagle as the crest, and the motto "E Pluribus Unum."
* Generic Coat of Arms: Search online for "generic coat of arms" to see a variety of examples with different elements.
Key Points to Remember:
* Coats of arms are unique and specific to individuals, families, or organizations.
* They are often used as a symbol of heritage, identity, and status.
* They are usually designed according to specific rules of heraldry.
Note: The appearance of a coat of arms can vary greatly depending on the specific charges, tinctures, and other elements used.