tinctures, stains, relics and cognizance Both "tinctures" and "stains" designate colors—such as gold (yellow), silver (white), and sanguine (red)—used in coats of arms. A "relic" is a momento or souvenir of a saint, hero, or other great person. A "cognizance" is any badge, set of colors, or emblem worn by the followers of a powerful man.