irish family shield plaque

Irish Family Crest Plaques

The heraldic shield is where the Irish coat of arms is placed and is the focal point of the heraldic display. A shield was used in reference to the protective shields used in battle, where the coat of arms would be displayed. The shape of the shield was normally left to the heraldic artist to decide, meaning that many different shapes have been used during different periods and in different parts of Europe. No two heraldic shields are the same, giving a sense of meaning and belonging to each family's name.

It is a very touching Irish wedding gift to give a shields coat of arms plaque with both the bride and groom's individual family shields, commemorating the union of these families and the proud ancestry they are bringing together. It can also be to celebrate the friendship of two families or anniversaries.

Our maker has been crafting these heraldry shields in Dublin for the past 50 years. When we take your order, you can be assured that we will get to work on the making process and keep you updated.

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The Meaning of Family Heraldry

There is something very special about being able to place yourself in a lineage bearing your Irish last name. There is a sense of pride that comes with knowing that your ancestors were brave and skilled, no matter their rank. This awe-inspiring fact makes it an honor to have one's surname and crest proudly displayed in the home. 

An Irish coat of arms has a number of elements: the crest is a figure or symbol at the top of the helmet and are usually an animal or mythical creature. The helmet is below the crest, atop the shield. Fun fact: how the helmet is positioned signifies the rank of the initial bearer.  For example, a helmet facing forward with the visor opened means a knight, while a helmet facing side-ways with the visor closed is for a gentleman. If a family had a war-cry associated with them, this would come to be their motto. If a motto exists, it is written in a ribbon below or above the shield.

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NEW! From $16! Family Crest Print

All names available, just select at checkout. Framed or unframed. Beautiful gift for family and friends.

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irish coat of arms

Irish Coat of Arms Parchments and Prints

We are delighted to add this exquisite collection of Family crest prints to our heraldry range. Our Family crest prints are EXCLUSIVE to Gifts of Ireland.

Originally created by Edmund McGrath in 1978 in Dublin, these prints are only now being reproduced. The family crest is illustrated at the center, whilst the family history is written around it. Above it are the lakes of Kilarney and many other symbols of Ireland. Choose from framed, printed, or digital downloads.

In our collection we have many of Ireland's most popular last names. We have 180 in total and we are always adding to them. Please contact us if we do not have your name listed and we will do our best to accomodate.

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Irish Counties Map

Irish counties map prints are a great way to show your Irish pride. By displaying a map of Ireland, you can show off your Irish heritage and connection to the country. County maps make great gifts for friends or family members who are Irish, or for anyone who loves Ireland. If you're looking for a unique and stylish way to show your Irish roots, an Irish county map print is the perfect choice.

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Personalized Ogham Name Gifts

Ogham is an ancient alphabet that was used primarily in Ireland. The alphabet consists of a series of lines and notches that are cut into stone. Ogham is sometimes referred to as the Celtic Tree Alphabet due to the fact that many of the letters are named after trees. The alphabet was used primarily for personal names and place names.

Our Ogham family name print is a Gifts of Ireland creation. You will not buy this anywhere else! We also have a beautiful Ogham gifts from Ogham Wishes, our maker in the midlands of Ireland.


Personalized Ogham Gifts
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Family Crest Souvenirs

We have a lovely selection of family crest souvenirs such as keyrings and booklets. Our booklets contain the story of your family name meaning. These gifts are an ideal gift for yourself or someone in your family. Our family name books are a great source for your family to learn more about their history and your family name meaning!

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family crest jewelry

Family Crest Jewelry

Celtic jewelry is a more personal way of representing ones roots. Wearing one's shield on their finger makes for decorative homage to one's Irish heritage. With a heraldic ring you bring your ancestry with you wherever you go. . Just like the coat of arms itself, these rings can be passed down from generation to generation, an heirloom and symbol of your Irish pride that will live on. 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Family Crests

In our warrior past, we used the family coat of arms in battles. But these days, they make as unique family crest gifts for weddings and anniversaries.

A coat of arms is a piece of art that is used to represent a family. It is usually a shield with symbols on it that represent the family's history and values. The coat of arms is often passed down from generation to generation.

A coat of arms is comprised of five parts: the heraldic shield,motto, crest and wreath, supporters, and the helmet and mantling.

A family crest is a symbol that represents a family's origins and history. Family crests can be found on shields, coins, heraldry, and other family heirlooms. Many people choose to display their family crest in their homes as a way to connect with their past and heritage. There are a few ways to find your family crest. You can look through family records, talk to older relatives, or search online databases. Crests often include symbols that represent important aspects of a family's history, such as their occupation, coat of arms, or country of origin.

The coat of arms refers to all five components indicated above. The family crest is the small image that lies above the helmet of the coat of arms.

A heraldic shield is a component of a coat of arms, which is a visual design used to identify a person or family. The shield is often decorated with symbols and colors that represent the family's history and values. In some cases, the shield may also be surmounted by a crest or other elements.The shield signifies protection and defense.

Yes. Some of our customers want to have double heraldic shields and one family name might have a name of Irish origin, whilst the other might be English for example. In co-operation with our heraldic artists, we consult with the genealogical societies to ensure the correct coat of arms is sourced and used on your gift.

It takes 4-6 weeks to complete your family shield plaque. This is a standard time. All our plaques are made to order and our heraldic artist then sources the correct family crest, paints the shield and nails this to either mahogany or oak plaque. Order in advance to have yours on time.

The Ireland coat of arms is blazoned as a harp. It comprises of a gold harp with silver strings illustrated on a blue background. The harp has long been Irelands national emblem. This harp is also referred to in Gaelic as the cláirseach, or Gaelic harp.

If you wish to display your Irish name on a shield, you do not need to come to us with your family crest. Instead, we work with the genealogical society to to ensure that the family crest we hand paint for you is the correct family crest.