coat of arms crest
Elements of a Coat of Arms. Shield: The colors and charges (lions, designs, etc. that appear on the shield) are a part of the official blazon, but the shape of the shield is not. Shield shapes vary according to the geographical origin as well as the time period. Crest: Also a part of the official blazon, the crest is whatever appears above the helm. (Note that there is not always a crest for every coat of arms.) Helm/Helmet: Not a part of the official blazon, the helmet varies with the bearer's rank, the century represented, or the herald's or artist's preference.