Elements of a Full Coat of Arms CREST: Historically awarded to a nobleman for valour in battle. Usual subject of an English nobleman's seal ring. HELMET: Decorative element of a coat of arms, the type has usually no particular heraldic significance. MANTLING: Heraldically represents the knights cloak worn over the armour, ripped and torn in battle. Shape of mantling has no heraldic significance. SHIELD & CHARGE: The crucial heraldic information is contained within the shield. Although the shape of the shield has no particular heraldic significance, the details charge (or charges) denotes the family heritage. RIBBON: Although the shape has no particular heraldic significance, the ribbon, banner, or scroll traditionally depicts the family motto but can be used to display the family name. close | home