From its origins back around 1600 BC when Greeks first started using gems to make jewelry, jewelry has been a fun, artistic way to dress up an outfit. For some, however, jewelry means a lot more. Certain symbols used in charms, pendants, and as accents are more than just embellishments. These jewelry symbols and meanings are a powerful means of expression. And they can have a much deeper value to many.
Motivational Jewelry Symbols and Meanings
When selecting your jewelry for a deeper meaning, some symbols mean a lot to others but may not speak to you. It’s important to learn more about classic symbols and find the perfect accessory that expresses your values and intentions. Below are eight of our most popular jewelry symbols and meanings. We hope you learn more and are able to find the perfect icon that speaks to you!
Lotus
Enlightenment • Purity • Overcoming Obstacles
The lotus shows us what it means to emerge from murky waters into a beautiful flower. This timeless symbol has had significant meaning in many religions including Buddhism and Hinduism. The lotus flower’s meaning is based on the way it grows in nature. Starting as a bud beneath the (often murky) water’s surface, it eventually grows and emerges in the light as a blooming flower. It often symbolizes overcoming difficulties, spiritual enlightenment, self-realization, purity, rising above, strength, power, and personal progress. This symbol is beautiful on jewelry as a dainty charm such as in this lotus bracelet or as a larger statement such as a blue lotus necklace made with Swarovski® crystals.
*The color of the lotus breaks it into an even deeper meaning: white = purity of mind, pink = perfection/Buddha, red = compassion, blue = knowledge, and gold or yellow = achievement of spiritual enlightenment.
Hamsa
Protection • Good Fortune • Luck
The name hamsa comes from the five fingers on each hand. In all faiths the hamsa is a protective sign symbolizing the hand of God; rather an overall good luck charm. Happiness, luck, good fortune, and protection (from the Evil Eye) are said to be brought to the owner possessing this symbol. In jewelry, the hamsa works well as an accent piece, even more in simple hamsa stud earrings or these abalone hamsa earrings.
Evil Eye
Protection • Health • Good Fortune
The evil eye symbol is based on a legend that those who are the recipient of the evil eye’s glare will undergo misfortune. Protection against evil are said to be brought to those wearing it. An extremely popular symbol in jewelry design, pieces like this blue evil eye cuff made with Swarovski crystals or this evil eye charm necklace are sure to keep the negative energy at bay!
Tree of Life
New Beginnings • Positive Energy • Higher Purpose
The tree of life symbol is known for representing a new beginning, positive energy, growth/strength, immortality, and a higher purpose. Its roots and branches are a reminder that you are connected to the outside world and never alone. This re-enforces the underlying concept of the symbol in its entirety – that all life on Earth is somehow connected.
Mandala
Meditation • Healing • Spiritual Guidance
The mandala symbol is an artistic expression symbolizing the universe; mandala’s literal meaning is “circle.” Modern consumers have associated the mandala with a bohemian lifestyle, however, it has been around for a long time as a spiritual symbol. It’s meaning varies from balance, to unity, to harmony. Most importantly, it serves as a representation of the order and connections in the physical and spiritual universe.
How to use: Mandalas should be selected for your person symbol by simply choosing one that appeals to you. Its primary use is then for meditation. An intention should be set and then it should be followed with focusing on the selected mandala. Allow yourself to take the beauty of it and your mind to wander calmly. If/when you mind begins to wander to someplace negative, bring your focus back to the beauty of the mandala.
Butterfly
Soul/Resurrection • Transitions • Overcoming Difficulties
The butterfly symbol is one of the most common and has been known as a symbol of major life transitions. Whether they are minor changes, difficulties you are overcoming, or major life events…the beautiful fluttering of the butterflies shows the movement from one phase to the next with grace. Many also believe that the butterfly is a symbol sent to comfort and reassure those who have lost loved ones, that their soul lives on. We love pieces like the blue abalone crystal butterfly pendant; to bring a subtle but stunning reminder with us whenever needed.
Anchor
Stability • Trust • Security
Some of our most popular requests are for seaside/beach symbols. To many, the ocean represents a free-flowing, laid-back lifestyle and feelings of serenity. The anchor is no exception. Especially in representations like this Anchor Charm Necklace that are paired with other oceanic symbols. In literal meaning, the anchor is used to slow or park a boat; safety/security, trust/confidence, and stability/being grounded.
Cowrie Shell
Good Fortune • Fertility • Prosperity
Did you know that some of the very first jewelry ever recorded in history was made from shell? The cowrie shell is one of the best-known seaside icons; serving as an iconic symbol for luck, prosperity, and good fortune. It also has been said to provide great luck with fertility, birth, sexuality, and menstruation.
What Gives Meaning and Motivation to You?
Whether it’s a message jewelry piece such as hidden message necklaces, a piece with meaning to its wearer such as birthstone jewelry, or motivational jewelry with symbols and meaning…We encourage you to carry something with you daily to help add a little meaning to every single day!