Heraldiska Samfundet's FAQ on heraldry Heraldiska Samfundet's answers to Frequently Asked Questions about heraldry Please note that the rules of heraldry here described is as used in Sweden. When it differs, I have tried to mention this in the text.
Arms are a special form of symbols.
The function of arms are like the trademark of a company, but the right to arms is closer related to the right to a name. The shield must not to be without charge, and the helmet must not be without crest and mantling. Anyone can have arms. A coat of arms must of course be individually designed, and must not look too much like a coat of arms that someone else already has. You are not allowed to have signs of rank in the coat of arms which you are not entitled to, e.g. a noble coronet if you are not a nobleman.