For many centuries, jewelers have been incorporating cultural and religious symbols into their necklaces, bracelets, and other forms of jewelry. But what do they all mean? Below, we’ve put together some of the most common jewelry symbols and offer an explanation…
Peace Sign
First created by Gerald Holtom in 1958, the Peace Sign has become one of the world’s most recognizable symbols of peace and togetherness. The symbol actually represents the navy signaling letters N and D, which stand for Nuclear and Disarmament. And because the peace symbol is anti-militaristic, the artist placed the D on top of the N to protest. The peace symbol made its way to the United States in the 60s and today is more of a sign to promote free love and non-violence, worn by some of the world’s biggest stars and cultural icons.
Tree of Life
Another common symbol seen on necklaces is the Tree of Life, which is common across a few different cultures. It’s designed to represent our connection to heaven, earth, and the underworld. For those who are Christian, the tree is sat at the center of Eden; for Egyptians, the tree is a holy sycamore connecting the concepts of life and death. Away from religion, the tree of life is often considered a representation of rooting – we’re in the here and now and we should be working to build solid foundations and growing as individuals every single day.
Celtic Cross
One of the most iconic symbols on this list, the Celtic Cross has been used since ancient times in Ireland and Scotland, areas which were heavily influenced by the Celtic Church. From as early as the fifth century, wheel-headed crosses were carved onto stone slabs to symbolize a halo and wreath, the eternal presence of God and a symbol of his sacrifice. Today, you can buy Celtic cross jewelry to ensure that the traditions and meanings live on.
Yin-Yang
Yin-Yang is actually called Taijitu, a Chinese symbol representing duality and opposite ideas. When they come together, they complement one another and complete the whole, which is greater than the individual parts. Yin is commonly associated with night and females, which represents darkness, passivity, stillness, coldness, and submission, whilst Yang is the sun and male, representing positivity, dominance, heat, and movement. Many wear this symbol as a fashion statement, or as a couple to demonstrate a relationship of harmonious duality.
Cross
Finally, the common cross. Though crosses feature in many stories throughout history, most wear a cross if they have an association with the Christian faith. We all know the story; Jesus Christ was crucified on a cross, and so the symbol represents the reconciliation of sins. Though nobody likes the idea of crucifixion, the cross is thought to protect against misfortune, representing water, fire, earth, and air, as well as north, south, east and west.
Which of these symbols is your favorite? Let us know your thoughts in the comments and check back soon for more insightful guides and information on your favorite jewelry.
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