Jermayan is indeed descended from the noble house of the second High King (or Great Queen, depending on where in history you're viewing the situation from). I am not entirely certain whether his wealth is connected with his lineage in any direct fashion (Elves being what they are), but he certainly comes of an important and well-connected family.

When I started DRAGON PROPHECY, I had no idea how thoroughly Elven society was about to be upended. I'm pretty glad some of the House names survived, too.