Common Symbols in Costume Jewelry and their Meanings
Throughout the jewelry world you see common symbols like the hearts, flowers, and fish. Ever wonder what the symbolism is behind these icons? This article from Earring Fish.com brings you the skinny on what's what in the world of jewelry icons and symbolism. Meanings change over time, but here are some of the basics:
Acorn - the acorn is used as representative of the fruit of the oak tree, symbolic of strength and dreams coming true. They also symbolize wisdom, birth, and truth. Nordic symbol of life and immortality.
Anchor - Symbol of hope, stability and strong foundation. Sailors.
Angel - in jewelry the angel is a symbol of a guardian, comfort and of hope.
Bamboo -signifies longevity, strength, and grace.
Butterfly - symbol for love's beauty.
Bow/Ribbon - united; cherish
Cat - signifies liberty, diligence and courage; wholeness.
Clover - 3 leaf clover is symbol of Ireland. 4 leaf clover symbol of good luck. Used a lot in costume jewelry and other applications.
Dove - signifies happiness and hope, new beginnings.
Eye - in Egypt the eye represents Horus the all seeing god. Eyes are symbolic of keeping away evil spirits.
Fish - signifies fertility, well-being, ecstasy, and freedom.
Flowers - individual flowers are below:
- daisy - means innocence
- forget-me-not - plead for remembrance
- iris - faith, valor, wisdom
- lily - purity, chastity, innocence
- lotus - origins, enlightenment
- orchid - perfection.
- pansy - thoughtfulness
- poppy - symbol of death.
- mistletoe - kiss
- rose - love and passion
- sunflower - infatuation or foolish passion
- thistle - both evil and protection. National symbol of Scotland.
- violet - faithfulness, humility
Harp -the harp is used as a symbol of contemplation.
Heart - in vintage jewelry the symbolism is obvious. One of spiritual center, and love.
Peace Symbol - while perhaps obvious as a statement of peace, it's more complex than that. The inner symbol is the crow's foot--a symbol of death. The outer circle represents life at it's wholeness. Combined the peace symbol is a union of opposites and therefore harmony.
Snake - Symbol of wisdom and eternal love. Queen Victoria is said to have worn a snake symbol as her wedding ring.
Tree of Life - a common jewelry symbol of rebirth and regeneration, enduring life.
Yin-Yang - the union of opposites, dark and light, with a seed of each side within the other. Symbolizing all that exists and motion between them.