A Scottish crest badge is a heraldic badge worn to show allegiance to an individual or membership in a specific Scottish clan. Crest badges are commonly called "clan crests", but this is a misnomer; there is no such thing as a collective clan crest, just as there is no such thing as a clan coat of arms.
Crest badges consist of a heraldic crest and a motto/slogan. These elements are heraldic property and protected by law in Scotland. Crest badges may be worn by anyone, but those who are not legally entitled to the heraldic elements wear a crest badge that incorporates a strap and buckle, which indicates that the wearer is a follower of the individual who owns the crest and motto. An armiger who is entitled to the heraldic elements may wear a crest badge that incorporates a circlet.
