# Tartan Verification Framework

Last updated: 2026-06-24

## Principle

Accuracy is more important than scale. Kilt-Hire.co.uk should explain tartan uncertainty clearly rather than pretending every tartan has a simple clan relationship or a fixed permission rule.

## Source Hierarchy

1. Scottish Register of Tartans.
2. Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs.
3. Official clan societies.
4. Historic tartan references.
5. Academic sources.
6. Heritage organisations.
7. Kilt-Hire.co.uk first-hand editorial notes.

## Confidence Levels

### HIGH

Use when tartan identity and the main relationship or usage claim are well supported. Notes should still explain any etiquette nuance.

### MEDIUM

Use when a relationship is plausible or commonly stated, but branch, geography, source wording or modern etiquette needs caution.

### LOW

Use only for discovery records that need further verification before they become firm recommendations.

### DISPUTED

Use when credible sources conflict or where multiple interpretations are recognised.

## Current Records

| Tartan | Confidence | Status | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Ancient Ferguson | HIGH | PASS WITH NOTES | High confidence for Ferguson association; exact sett details should be checked before commissioning garments. |
| Black Watch | HIGH | PASS | Strong universal and military identity; Campbell relationship is contextual rather than exclusive. |
| Royal Stewart | HIGH | PASS WITH NOTES | Strong Stewart/Stuart and royal association; modern use is widely treated as universal. |

## Editorial Rules

- Do not invent colour meanings.
- Do not imply exclusive clan ownership unless a strong source supports it.
- Do not treat commercial availability as historical proof.
- Always separate tartan identity from tartan etiquette.
- Preserve uncertainty in the public page copy.
- Link to the Scottish Register of Tartans for exact sett verification.