Also, the there are different icons for messages too
Developer and Tutorial messages are accompanied by an Elite Knight avatar, while User created messages have an avatar of an in-game NPC. Which NPC is displayed will change with the number of ratings.
A message with a rating of 0+ has a Undead Merchant avatar.
A rating of 100+ will change to a Solaire of Astora avatar.
A rating of 200+ will change to a Domhnall of Zena avatar.
A rating of 300+ will change to a Darkmoon Knightess avatar.
A rating of 400+ will change to a Princess Gwynevere avatar.
A rating of 500+ will change to a Primordial Serpent avatar.
I've seen Domhnall of Zena before