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Joseph Fielding Smith Jr. (10th prophet):
A patriarch giving a blessing has the right of inspiration to declare the literal descent of the person receiving the blessing; he does not have authority to assign that individual to any tribe. Through the waters of baptism and the priesthood, Church members become heirs of Abraham with all the rights belonging to the children of Abraham through their faithfulness.
If a patriarch gives a blessing and the lineage is not designated, is it considered a patriarchal blessing? Yes. However, a patriarch has the right of discernment to designate the lineage.
If in a blessing the lineage is not given, the person may go to the patriarch and ask for that information, and if the patriarch is so inspired, he may declare it and have it added to the blessing. If the patriarch is deceased, another patriarch could add that part to the blessing.
Source: McConkie, Bruce R., ed. Doctrines of Salvation: Sermons and Writings of Joseph Fielding Smith, Vol. 3. 171 - 172. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954-1955.
Church members have great leadership potential. You [student officers] are born leaders. Your patriarchal blessings will designate most of you as of Ephraim, the natural leaders. You must take your stance -- you must assume your responsibility -- you must measure up.
Source: Edward L. Kimball, ed. The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982. 476.