In ancient times people tended to group together in what is known as Clans. These were usually made up of relatives, both distant and close in relationship, such as sisters, brothers, cousins and in-laws. Each group had a chief or head clansperson.

During the middle ages when heraldry came into being, it was customary for the Chief of a clan to give to each of his clan members a metal badge which had the "crest" from his personal coat of arms and his motto forged on it. The members would affix these badges to a leather strap with a buckle so they could wear them on their clothing as a sign of allegiance to the chief and the clan. When these badges were not being worn, they were stored away by wrapping the leather belt (garter) around the badge. Only the chief is allowed to wear the crest without the strap and buckle.

These badges were distributed to the "same name" direct relatives of the Chief such a Davidson. Other family members were also allowed to wear the badges. These extended families who were Clan Septs and were dependents that were descended from the Chief through the female line and bore a different surname. In addition, other non-related Septs were formed from families who sought out clan protection and later became dependents.  

According to the Lord Lyon crests are supposed to be uncolored since their true original form is either in silver or white metal so we have taken an artistic license to color the crest.

Elements of the Clan Crest or Badge