Russell Family Crest Rocks Glass - earliest version

The Russell Family Crest Rocks Glass - earliest version. 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 Russell

Russell is a distinguished surname of Anglo-Norman origin, deriving from the Old French roussel (a diminutive of rous, meaning "red-haired" or "red-complexioned"). Introduced to England during the Norman Conquest of 1066, early family branches established prominent manorial seats across Dorset and Bedfordshire. Following the 1169 Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland, Sir John Russell accompanied John de Courcy to Ulster, establishing the powerful Russells of Lecale in County Down. Over the centuries, the lineage became deeply rooted in both English and Irish history as feudal landowners, parliamentarians, and military commanders.

The symbolism of the Russell coat of arms

This early armorial bearing features an argent (silver) shield charged with a bold gules (red) lion rampant. In classical heraldry, argent signifies peace, purity, and moral integrity, while gules denotes warrior fortitude and magnanimity.

The central red lion rampant represents fierce courage, regal dignity, and unyielding defense of kin and realm. Surmounting the shield, a plume of red and silver ostrich feathers rises from a golden coronet and torse, symbolizing noble honor, high ambition, and chivalric status. Recorded in Sir Bernard Burke’s General Armory.

Historical figures

Thomas Russell (1767–1803): Co-founder of the Society of United Irishmen and revered Irish revolutionary leader famously remembered as "The Man from God-Knows-Where."

Charles Russell, Baron Russell of Killowen (1832–1900): Born in Newry, County Down, a prominent statesman and the first Roman Catholic Lord Chief Justice of England since the Reformation.

John Russell, 1st Earl of Bedford (c. 1485–1555): Prominent English royal advisor and Lord High Admiral under King Henry VIII.

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 to the collection, so please get in touch if you can’t find what you're looking for. ⚜️