Who can wear a clan badge?

Clan chiefs alone have the right to wear their crests as badges either “simpliciter” (by themselves without other decorations) or surrounded with a plain circlet inscribed with his motto or slogan. They may also choose to display three eagle’s feathers in silver behind the circlet.

What makes you a member of a Scottish clan?

Every person who has the same surname as the chief is deemed to be a member of the clan. Equally a person who offers allegiance to the chief is recognised as a member of the clan unless the chief decides that he will not accept that person’s allegiance.

How do I get a Scottish coat of arms?

To apply for a coat of Arms, you must send a ‘petition’ to the Court of Lord Lyon and ask for Arms to be granted. If you don’t live in Scotland, you may be able to apply for Arms in the name of an ancestor who lived in Scotland. You’ll need to provide proof of ancestry.

How do you know which Scottish clan you belong to?

To find your clan or family tartan, simply enter your surname or clan into our Family Finder. You’ll be provided with a list of potential names to choose from. By clicking on a name, you’ll be brought to a dedicated page where you’ll be able to explore a range of tartans and products specific to that clan or family.

What is a Scottish family crest called?

Crest badges are commonly called clan crests, but this is a misnomer; there is no such thing as a collective clan crest, just as there is no such thing as a clan coat of arms. Crest badges consist of a crest and a motto/slogan. These elements are heraldic property and protected by law in Scotland.

What is banned in Scotland?

The sale of plastic straws, cutlery and polystyrene cups and food boxes is to be banned in Scotland next year as part of measures to reduce waste and pollution. Single-use plastic straws, cotton buds and drink stirrers were banned in England in 2020.