Stained Glass Family Crests – the Gift that’s Destined to Become an Heirloom

Are you looking for an unusual, unique gift, something likely to be so treasured that it will be handed down generation to generation? Something that reflects and honors a family’s past and unites that past with their future generations? Have you considered a stained glass family crest from Stained Glass San Antonio?

Family Crests in Stained Glass Designs

Of course, since San Antonio Stained Glass has roots in Scotland where families were part of different “clans”, the family crest is well known to us. In ancient times, a Scottish crest was a badge that was actually worn by a member of a clan to indicate their allegiance. Those particular badges consist of a clan motto and the actual crest itself, containing images from the clan chief’s coat of arms.

But we are talking about a stained glass panel that can be hung in a window, or perhaps a stained glass window incorporating your family crest in colors you choose. These crests can be custom designed to match your décor and add a fascinating touch of history, beauty and class to your home.

Where did Stained Glass Family Crests Originate?

Here’s a bit of history, for those of you who are unfamiliar with a coat of arms. This term refers to a unique design that was placed on a shield or on a tabard used to cover and protect a suit of armor. It’s main purpose was to identify the individual. It was also known as “coat-armour.” The design represented a symbol that was unique to a person or family, or a government, corporation or state.

Also called “armorial bearings”, these individual crests first appeared on medieval battlefields in the mid-twelfth century. They served an extremely important and practical purpose – that of identifying allied soldiers from the enemy! After a while, priests and other religious figures also developed coats of arms which they used as their seal. By the mid-thirteenth century, much of the European population had adopted these armorial bearings.

Family Crests Unique To Your Family’s History!

This ancient tradition is the inspiration behind the stained glass family crest, and you don’t have to be of Scottish origin to have one. All of our family crests are custom designed and hand built after we research your family history. Because of the work involved, we can only produce one or two a month, so you know you are getting something truly unique and meaningful. Our workmanship is designed to withstand the test of time, so we offer a lifetime warranty that is even transferable, meaning your family crest will likely become a family heirloom.

They are also fantastic for organizations that want to celebrate their mission or their history, such as universities, fraternal organizations and anyone else who appreciates this ancient heritage. They are fantastic in a home, perhaps behind your bar or above your mantel?

If you are not of European descent and you don’t have any history we can draw on, we could still design a family crest using any images that are meaningful to you and your family.

Contact us today to discuss your stained glass family crest!