Some jewellery is chosen for how it looks. Some is chosen for what it means. Symbols have been worn for centuries as reminders, wishes and quiet messages to the people we love. Here are the most popular jewellery symbols, what they're traditionally associated with, and how to choose one with meaning.
The North Star: direction and guidance
For centuries, travellers used the North Star, or Polaris, to find their way. In jewellery, it's a symbol of guidance, purpose and finding your way home.
It makes a thoughtful gift for someone starting something new: a graduate, a new job, a move overseas. The Polaris Heart Layered Necklace pairs a North Star charm with a heart across three fine chains. Explore the full North Star collection.
The butterfly: transformation and new beginnings
Because of its journey from caterpillar to wings, the butterfly is one of the most widely recognised symbols of change, growth and rebirth. It's a meaningful gift after a difficult chapter, or to celebrate a fresh start.
The Prism Flutter Butterfly Earrings capture the movement of wings in clear pavé and colourful baguette-cut stones. For something softer, the Moonveil Butterfly Bracelet features luminous mother-of-pearl wings. See the Butterfly collection.
The heart: love in every form
The heart is the most universal symbol of love, and not only romantic love. A heart necklace can just as easily say thank you to a mother, celebrate a friendship or be a reminder of self-love.
The Heart Within Necklace features a natural stone heart pendant, with a choice of stones. The Moonlit Heart Necklace uses a heart-shaped baroque pearl. Explore the Heart collection.
Horseshoes and horsebits: luck and protection
The horseshoe has long been considered a lucky charm, and equestrian symbols more broadly suggest strength, movement and protection. The Fortuna Horsebit Ring Collection draws on horsebit, stirrup and horseshoe shapes, while the Fortuna Bead Necklace uses a turning bead as a small symbol of luck and renewal. Explore the Talisman collection.
Stars, moons and planets: wonder and possibility
Celestial jewellery speaks to dreams, curiosity and the feeling that something bigger is out there. The Celestial Drift Necklace brings together a transparent glass planet, a champagne-gold star and silver-tone details, like a miniature universe on a chain. Browse the Celestial collection.
Knots: connection and lasting bonds
A knot represents connection: the ties between people that hold over time. The Elysian Knot Bracelet is inspired by intertwined paths, a lovely gift for a best friend, sister or partner.
Locks and keys: secrets and the heart
A lock and key together suggest trust, a secret kept, or the person who holds the key to your heart. The Secret Key 3-in-1 Layered Pearl Necklace pairs an ornate heart lock with an antique-style key pendant.
How to choose a symbol
- Think about the moment. A new beginning suggests a butterfly or North Star; love and gratitude suggest a heart; a big event calls for a lucky charm.
- Think about the person. Some people love a visible symbol; others prefer something subtle that only they understand.
- Add a note. A short card explaining why you chose the symbol turns jewellery into a keepsake.
Explore all five of our meaning collections on Shop by Collection, or read our guide to personalised jewellery gifts.