- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
Susan Marion-Jean Precious
Vancouver, British Columbia
Registration of Arms
April 15, 2016
Vol. VI, p. 599
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Argent a lozenge Vert charged with a fleam Argent, on a chapé embowed Purpure two lozenges Argent each charged with a fleam Vert;
Crest
A kingfisher close proper holding in its dexter claw a tulip Purpure slipped Vert;
Motto
PRIMUM PRODESSE;
Symbolism
Arms
The division line resembles a cleft lip and thus alludes to Ms. Precious’s father’s renowned work in cleft lip and cleft palate surgery. The diamond shapes refer to diamonds and emeralds – “precious stones” – and are therefore a reference to the family’s surname. The fleams, heraldic forms of an antique lancet, symbolize Ms. Precious’s father’s work as a surgeon.
Crest
The kingfisher symbolizes Halifax, where Ms. Precious’s father lived for many decades, and where she was born, and the tulip is a familiar flower in Ottawa, where her father was born and raised.
Motto
This Latin phrase refers to Ms. Precious’s father’s career in surgery. It means “First, do good”, and is a variation on the traditional medical aphorism “First, do no harm” (Primum non nocere).
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on October 22, 2016, in Volume 150, page 3150 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Bruce Patterson, Saint-Laurent Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
* Not applicable / Sans objet
Calligrapher
* Not applicable / Sans objet
Recipient Information
Individual