Shield: The colors and charges (lions, designs, etc. that appear on the shield) are a part of the official blazon. In strict forms of heraldry, single women did not carry arms in the shape of a shield but rather in the shape of a lozenge.

Crest: Also a part of the official blazon, the crest is whatever appears above the helm.

Helm: Not a part of the official blazon, the helmet varies with the bearer's rank, the century represented, or the herald's or artist's preference.

Wreath or Torse: Usually around the top of the helm. It is not always used in a heraldic device. Sometimes a crown or coronet is used instead of a torse.

Mantling: Not a part of the official blazon (except that sometimes the colors are specified). The design varies with the herald's or artist's preference. This is said to represent the cloth that hung from the torse and protected the back of the head and neck, even though it may often be depicted more like the leaves of a plant.

Compartment: Used under the shield for the supporters to stand on. Sometimes the motto scroll is hung from the compartment.

Motto Scroll: Banner on which the motto is displayed.

Supporters: Figures placed on both sides of the shield that are usually depicted as holding the shield between them. Strict heraldic law usually only allows only titled nobility to carry supporters in their arms, however, in countries in which the there are no official laws of heraldry, this rule is not always observed. However, if the person having arms created for them ever intends to petition for a grant of their arms from an official heraldic authority, it is always wise to follow the rules governing the creation of heraldic devices.