Do you know of the hidden gems embedded in Victorian jewelry? Once upon a time, pendants were much more than mere ornaments. They were insignia. Each design carried motifs and qualities with precious meaning, supposedly describing its owner.
Victorian ladies were what they wore, so to speak.
For example, a necklace with a holly design signified truth and instinct. An eye: protection. And so on and so forth. In order to fully appreciate the finery we wear, we’ve compiled a list of each emblem with its significance.
Of the earth
| Symbol | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
 |
Acorn | Immortality |
 |
Chrysanthemum | Love |
 |
Clover | Be Mine, Token of Affection |
 |
Daisy | Purity, Innocence |
 |
Holly | Truth, Instinct |
 |
Ivy | Everlasting Love, Marriage, Faithfulness, Friendship |
 |
Laurel Leaves | Triumph |
 |
Lily | Innocence, Purity |
 |
Mistletoe | Nature, Magical, Eternity |
 |
Oak | Strength, Maturity |
 |
Pearls | Teardrops |
 |
Rose | Love, Hope, Joy |
 |
Spider | Wisdom, Hard Work, Prudence |
 |
Tree | Life, Growth |
 |
Violet | Faith |
Of the sky
| Symbol | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
 |
Angel | Guidance, Strength |
 |
Bee | Organization, Efficiency, Community |
 |
Butterfly | The Soul |
 |
Crescent or Moon | Female Spirituality, Death & Rebirth |
 |
Dove | Peace |
 |
Feather | Obedience |
 |
Flying Bird | The Soul |
 |
Owl | Vigilance, Wisdom |
 |
Star | Spirit |
 |
Dragonfly | Prosperity, Courage, Change |
Of king and country
| Symbol | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
 |
Bell | Friendship Over Confrontation, Warding Off Evil Spirits |
 |
Buckle | Protection |
 |
Cross | Religious |
 |
Crown | Sovereignty |
 |
Dagger | Honor & Justice |
 |
Eye | Protection |
 |
Heart | Love, Passion, Charity |
 |
Key | Guardian, Authority |
 |
Cupid | Earthly Love |
What does your jewelry say about you?
No symbols of power,determination,strength?
I just love the Victorian era. The details that was put into everything. There is a meaning behind every little detail.
Indeed!
Your “dove” is actually a lovely swallow (note the characteristic split tail) with intriguing meaning of its own – I believe due to the species’ habit of always returning home.