Clear answers · Digital only · No crest-factory myths

Frequently asked questions

Herald Lab delivers researched surname history and coats of arms associated with a last name as gift-ready digital PDFs. Nothing is mailed. Custom research is typically completed within ~24 hours of a paid order. If we cannot research the name, we refund 100%.

The four questions most buyers ask

Is this a digital PDF — or do you mail something?

Digital PDF only. You receive a printable file by email and/or Shopify download. There is no parchment in the post, no frame, no tracking number, and no shipping address required. Shopify may still label a policy page “Shipping”; our delivery is digital — read the digital delivery policy.

How long does it take?

Custom surname research is typically completed within ~24 hours of a paid order. If research takes longer, we notify you by email. Check inbox and spam/junk for the PDF.

Do I get “my official family coat of arms”?

No. A coat of arms is not an entitlement of everyone who shares a last name. We present arms historically recorded for some families of this name, or arms commonly associated with the surname. If none can be documented, we provide a clearly labeled decorative reconstruction. This is a commemorative digital heraldic document — not a grant of arms, noble title, or legal right.

Is this a good gift?

Yes — birthdays, Father’s Day, weddings, anniversaries, reunions, and family archives. Recipients get a calm, researched document rather than a tourist-trap crest. Digital means you can print locally or forward the file — no parcel deadline panic. For couples, choose Anniversary Dual ($149).

Ordering

How does an order work?

Choose a pack, enter the surname (Last Name 1 and Last Name 2 for Dual), optionally note a country of origin (and wedding year for Dual), and select the PDF language. After payment, a specialist researches the name and emails a printable PDF — typically within ~24 hours. See How it works.

What must I enter at checkout?

Last name is required (both surnames for Dual). Country/region is optional but helpful. Choose the PDF language. For Dual, wedding_year is optional — if you enter it, we print EST. {year}. No shipping address is needed.

What size is the PDF?

Files are designed for standard letter 8.5×11 inches and A4. Print at home or at a local print shop. Print size describes the layout — not a physical item we mail.

What you receive

What is in the Standard Surname History PDF ($49)?

One landscape page: researched last-name origin narrative + high-resolution arms associated with the surname. Order Standard →

What is the Anniversary Dual Pack ($149)?

Enter Last Name 1 and Last Name 2. We research arms associated with each surname and place both achievements on one printable PDF — optional EST. year. Wedding or anniversary gift, delivered digitally. Order Dual →

What is in the Executive Digital Pack ($99)?

A portrait full-page coat of arms (frame page) plus an extended multi-source surname-history essay. Order Executive →

Which should I choose?

Standard ($49) — best everyday “Surname History PDF” order. Dual ($149) — two surnames / couples. Executive ($99) — fuller presentation for framing + archive.

Research and honesty

Who does the research?

A person. Custom packs are not auto-generated instant templates. That is why delivery is measured in hours, not seconds.

What if you cannot find the name?

We refund 100% of the purchase price. Email info@heraldlab.com with your order number. Details: refund policy.

Will a relative’s reorder match mine?

Yes. We keep surname artwork consistent so a later family order for the same last name matches the rendering you received.

Which languages can the PDF be written in?

English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Polish, Dutch, Romanian, and Swedish. The surname itself stays as you typed it.

Still have a question?

Contact us, read How it works or About Herald Lab, or write to info@heraldlab.com.