The McDonald Family Crest Rocks Glass. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.
Nicely suited for the moments that call for a proper toast. Whether it’s a gift to celebrate a milestone birthday, a wedding or a housewarming—this piece is an instant heirloom.
The origin of the name McDonald
McDonald (MacDonald / Clan Donald) is one of the most famous royal Gaelic clan surnames in world history, derived from Mac Domhnaill ("son of Donald"). Descended from Somerled, 12th-century King of the Isles, the Chiefs of Clan Donald ruled as sovereign Lords of the Isles, controlling vast maritime kingdoms across the Hebrides and western Highlands. Defending their sea realms from coastal castles like Finlaggan and Armadale, the clan shaped Scottish and Irish history for over six centuries.
The symbolism of the McDonald coat of arms
Visually sovereign and majestic, the McDonald coat of arms features a shield partitioned quarterly: the 1st silver quarter is charged with a red lion rampant; the 2nd golden quarter displays a hand issuing from a cloud holding a blue cross crosslet fitchee; the 3rd golden quarter bears a lymphad galley with oars in action; the 4th green quarter features a silver salmon swimming. In Gaelic heraldry, the silver field and red lion represent sincerity, supreme courage, and royal leadership. The hand holding a cross crosslet fitchee denotes unyielding Christian faith, while the lymphad galley signifies maritime mastery, island lordship, and naval command. The silver salmon represents ancient Gaelic wisdom (Éigne) and river lordship. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a striking plume of red and silver feathers, symbolising noble elevation. Below, the motto scroll displays Per mare per terras, translating to "By sea and by land." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was registered in the Public Register of All Arms and Bearings in Scotland for the Lords of the Isles.
Historical figures
Donald of Islay, Lord of the Isles (d. 1423): Sovereign Hebridean ruler and commander at the Battle of Harlaw.
Flora MacDonald (1722–1790): Legendary Jacobite heroine who famously helped Prince Charles Edward Stuart escape to Skye.
Sir Hector MacDonald (1853–1903): Renowned Scottish major-general known as 'Fighting Mac'.
Product details
- Classic rocks glass with family crest
- Volume: 10.5 oz. (311 ml)
- Height: 3.4″ (8.64 cm)
- Diameter: 3.2″ (8.13 cm)
- High heat from the dishwasher or microwave may damage the print, so please hand-wash only.
No Warehouses. No Waste. Just for you, made to order
This product is printed especially for you when ordered, one at a time, by royal decree of Mother Nature to keep the realm beautiful. Family Crests Store guarantees your custom treasure meets all EU and USA safety standards.
About the artist
Each coat of arms in the Family Crests Store is an artwork by heraldic artist Éamonn Breathnach. All are carefully researched, drawing from the earliest available records across multiple heraldic archives. Noted for their elegance and attention to detail, these artworks make meaningful gifts for family occasions.
Don’t see your family name?
I’m always happy to add new crests and products to the collection, so please get in touch if you can’t find what you're looking for. ⚜️
