The Meaning Behind Meghan Markle's New Coat of Arms

After weeks of speculation over whether Meghan Markle's father, Thomas Markle Sr. would receive a family coat of arms as Michael Middleton did in the lead up to Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding in 2011, Kensington Palace has shared the news that Meghan Markle has received her own heraldic design.

They revealed the coat of arms this morning, via Twitter:

Duchess Meghan worked with the College of Arms on the coat of arms, which features visual references to not only California, but also to her home with Prince Harry in Nottingham Cottage at Kensington Palace.

"The blue background of the shield represents the Pacific Ocean off the California coast, while the two golden rays across the shield are symbolic of the sunshine of The Duchess's home state. The three quills represent communication and the power of words," reads a statement from Kensington Palace.

"Beneath the shield on the grass sits a collection of golden poppies, California's state flower, and wintersweet, which grows at Kensington Palace."