Marks of distinction
A mark of distinction, in heraldry, is a charge showing that the bearer of a shield is not descended by blood from the original bearer. The "mark of distinction" usually refers to a context of illegitimacy, the illegitimate offspring being regarded as a "stranger in blood" to his natural father. The mark of distinction may also be applied upon the adoption of a surname and arms of a family from whom the bearer is not descended.
