Argent

Argent is a heraldic tincture, belonging to the class of metals. It represents silver or white. In blazon, it is typically depicted as white, but may be represented in black-and-white engravings by leaving the area uncolored (white).

Representation

• Metal: Silver
• Color: White
• Hatching (for black-and-white depictions): Uncolored (leaving the field white)

Meaning and Symbolism

Argent is traditionally associated with the following virtues and characteristics:

• Peace
• Innocence
• Purity
• Sincerity
• Wisdom

Usage in Heraldry

Argent is used as a field tincture (the background of the shield) or as a charge (an object placed on the shield). It adheres to the Rule of Tincture, which generally prohibits placing a metal (argent or or/gold) on another metal, or a colour on another colour, for the sake of visibility and clarity. However, exceptions to this rule are sometimes made.

Examples in Coats of Arms

Many coats of arms incorporate argent, either as a field or as charges. Specific examples are numerous and can be found in heraldic registers and online databases.

Alternatives and Synonyms

While argent is the standard heraldic term for silver or white, alternative terms and historical usages exist, though less common:

• Silver (Less formally, but understood)
• White (Less formally, but understood)