Top 10 Most Popular Symbols in Jewelry and Their Meaning

What could be more classic than the heart symbol? For centuries it has been one of the most recognizable symbols of love and affection. The heart-shape origin goes as far back as the Middle Ages, but it was during the Renaissance (14th through 17th century) that it was fully embraced as an emblem of romance and love. And, of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the holiday where hearts are a big deal: Valentine’s Day. Today, hearts are widely popular and can be found in a variety of jewelry designs. The meaning has also expanded beyond just romantic love, from representing self-love to the love between family and friends, or an expression of caring in a more general way.

Another classic representation of love and devotion, the infinity sign carries a bit of a different pedigree than the heart. It is often used as a term in mathematics or physics when discussing endless number sequences or the boundless nature of the universe. If you were to look up “infinity” in the dictionary, you’ll discover that it means something is unlimited, endless or without bounds, hence its representation in jewelry as a symbol of endless love and devotion, like the one between a parent and a child. It can also serve as an inspirational sign of hope and encouragement to never give up.

Mainly regarded as a Christian symbol of faith, hope and love, cross jewelry is thought to offer protection and comfort to its wearer. Cross jewelry can represent a variety of themes, so each piece can be meaningful to the wearer. It can be worn as a beautiful reminder that God is with us no matter what, a comforting keepsake in a time of loss, or it can be given as a thoughtful gift to honor a special relationship in our life.

The transformation of a caterpillar to a butterfly is one of the most incredible metamorphoses in nature – a glorious representation of renewal, strength, and hope. Wearing butterfly-themed jewelry can be a personal reminder of one’s own resilience and potential for transformation. Butterflies can also represent the journey we go through in life and serve as a warm reminder of the loved ones that stay in our heart forever. Their delicate and colorful appearance lends itself perfectly to artistic jewelry creations.

There are plenty of reasons to buzz about bees. They’re the world’s top pollinators. They keep our lives sweet with their honey. They’re also the ultimate team players, with each bee performing a significant role to keep their hive healthy and functioning. All these qualities along with their vibrant yellow color have made them quite the bee-loved staple in jewelry designs. Their playful cuteness can relay sweet reminders to always stay positive and believe in oneself no matter what.

The language of flowers has a long history dating back to pre-Victorian times, with different flowers carrying unique meanings; for example, roses are synonymous with love and passion, lilies with purity, and daisies with innocence. This diverse symbolism makes flowers a popular choice in jewelry designs, allowing individuals to convey a wide range of emotions and messages. Moreover, the intricate and delicate shapes of flowers translate to jewelry pieces that are both visually appealing and rich in meaning.

In ancient times, stars were used for navigation, leading travelers safely through the night, and thus became emblems of direction and aspiration. In various mythologies, they are often seen as divine or magical, embodying the connection between the earthly and the celestial. Stars have long been cherished across cultures, representing guidance, hope, and the pursuit of dreams. Wearing star jewelry can serve as a celebration of one’s achievements and a reminder of one’s goals and aspirations. It also makes the perfect gift to let someone know they shine bright like the stars in the sky.

Across various cultures and spiritual traditions, the Tree of Life embodies the harmonious balance between the earth and the heavens. Its roots reach deep into the earth while its branches stretch toward the sky, symbolizing stability, strength, and growth. In jewelry, the Tree of Life can serve as a magnificent reminder of how connected we are through nature while emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and striving for higher aspirations.

Historically, anchors have been vital tools for sailors, representing safety and the ability to remain grounded even amidst turbulent seas. This association with steadfastness and reliability extends beyond maritime contexts, reflecting the wearer’s desire for stability and strength in their life. Additionally, the anchor is often seen as a harbinger of hope and perseverance, as it holds firmly to the sea floor, providing a sense of reassurance and calm.

What is it about the moon that is so captivating? Whether it’s a full moon or a crescent moon, there are many mesmerizing and magical qualities associated with the biggest star in the universe. In fact, the crescent moon is a deeply significant symbol in jewelry designs, that can reflect growth, change and the passage of time. Additionally, the elegant and minimalist form of the crescent moon lends itself to stunning and versatile jewelry designs, making it suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.