Generally speaking it is almost always impossible to accurately decipher the meaning of the symbolism on any personal coat of arms (family crest). Many of the arms in use today, or on which today's coats of arms are based, were granted hundreds of years ago and if there was ever a specific meaning to the symbols, then this is probably lost in history. Even in situations where there are records of the granting of arms, rarely, if ever, is the symbolic significance recorded.
There are of course exceptions. For example, in civic heraldry, coats of arms of towns, regions and countries often have clear symbolism. For example, the coat of arms of County Cork shows a tall ship entering the harbor, clearly symbolizing Cork history as an important sea-port. Rarely though are personal arms so easily deciphered, but sometimes it can be done.
Examining the Coat of Arms of the O'Driscolls of County Cork in Ireland, a long-standing understanding of the detailing reflects the history and life of the clan dating back to the 1400's:
The Tall Ship - mariners, seafaring, sea harbor
The Knight's Helmet - represents wisdom and security, strength, protection, and invulnerability
Laurel leaves - peace and or loyalty
Color Gold - hope, joy, and loyalty in love
Color Green - generosity and elevation of the mind
Courtesy, Araltas Internet Heraldry
and Celtic Radio
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