Article: The Timeless Allure of Heart Jewellery: A Journey Through History and Symbolism
The Timeless Allure of Heart Jewellery: A Journey Through History and Symbolism
Heart jewellery, with its timeless allure and universal symbolism, has captivated humanity for centuries. From ancient empires to modern-day fashionistas, heart-shaped adornments have transcended cultures and epochs, embodying profound meanings and emotions. In this blog, we take a journey through the fascinating history of heart jewellery, exploring its origins, evolution, and the rich symbolism it represents.
The heart symbol, as we recognise it today, is a stylised representation that bears little resemblance to the anatomical heart. Its origins are somewhat unclear, with various theories suggesting connections to ancient symbols and cultural practices. Some historians trace the heart shape back to the silphium plant, used in ancient Cyrene (present-day Libya) as a form of birth control. The plant's seedpod, often depicted on coins, bore a striking resemblance to the modern heart shape.
Another theory postulates that the heart symbol arose from the depiction of ivy leaves, which were associated with fidelity and eternal love in ancient Greece. Similarly, the heart shape can be seen in ancient depictions of the fig leaf, which carried connotations of fertility and abundance.
In 14th century Medieval Europe, the now-ubiquitous heart shape started to signify love. Heart jewellery in the iconic shape started to emerge, as did poetry that further linked hearts to their symbolism of love.
It was also the time of Geoffrey Chaucer, coinciding with the approach of Valentine’s Day. In 1382, after five years of negotiations, Anne of Bohemia wed Richard II of England. To celebrate their union, Chaucer penned a love poem called “The Parliament of Fowls,” which references Valentine’s Day.
Chaucer wasn't the only poet associating Valentine’s Day to romance; French poet Oton de Grandson wrote “Saint Valentine's Dream.” This surge of heart-related themes sparked a wave of heart imagery — appearing on books (including heart-shaped volumes!), tapestries, and, of course, heart-shaped jewellery.
For the next few centuries, heart jewellery came into and out of fashion. Queen Victoria cemented heart jewellery’s popularity and its ties to love in the 19th century. With pieces such as a multi-charm heart bracelet and a heart pendant necklace, she showcased how meaningful this jewellery style can be.
A Symbol of Love and Connection
At the core of heart-shaped jewellery's popularity is its association with love and romance. Whether it's a simple pendant or an intricately designed ring, the heart symbol speaks a universal language of affection and emotional bonds. It is often gifted on special occasions such as anniversaries, Valentine's Day, or birthdays, serving as a tangible expression of love and a reminder of cherished relationships.
Antique Georgian 18ct Yellow Gold ‘Heart’ Shaped Locket Circa 1790 (SOLD)
Heart Jewellery in Antiquity
The use of heart motifs in jewellery can be traced back to ancient civilisations, where they were often imbued with spiritual significance. In ancient Egypt, heart amulets, known as "ib," were believed to house the soul and were worn to ensure protection in the afterlife. These amulets were commonly crafted from red stones such as carnelian, symbolising vitality and rebirth.
The ancient Greeks and Romans also embraced heart symbolism, often incorporating heart-shaped motifs into rings and pendants. For them, the heart was seen as the seat of emotion, particularly love and passion. Heart-shaped jewellery from this era was often exchanged between lovers as a token of affection and commitment.
The Middle Ages and the Renaissance
During the Middle Ages, the heart symbol began to take on a more romantic connotation, largely influenced by the era's chivalric traditions and courtly love. Heart-shaped lockets and brooches became popular among the nobility, often engraved with mottos or initials as a testament to unyielding devotion.
The Renaissance period saw a flourishing of artistic expression, and heart jewellery became more elaborate and ornate. Jewellers of this era crafted intricate pieces using precious metals and gemstones, often incorporating religious iconography.
Antique Australian 15ct Yellow Gold Amethyst Heart Pendant/Brooch Circa 1910 (SOLD)
Embracing Modern Designs
While the classic heart shape remains a staple, contemporary designers are reimagining it in innovative ways. Asymmetrical hearts, abstract interpretations, and mixed-media designs have given the traditional motif a modern twist. These fresh takes on the heart shape appeal to those seeking unique and avant-garde pieces that still carry the timeless symbolism of love and connection.
Antique Australian 15ct Rose Gold And Pearl Puffy Heart By Duggin, Shappere And Co. Circa 1915 (SOLD)
Antique Mid-Victorian 15ct Yellow Gold Amethyst Heart Locket Pendant (CLICK HERE)
The heart symbol, as we recognise it today, is a stylised representation that bears little resemblance to the anatomical heart. Its origins are somewhat unclear, with various theories suggesting connections to ancient symbols and cultural practices. Some historians trace the heart shape back to the silphium plant, used in ancient Cyrene (present-day Libya) as a form of birth control. The plant's seedpod, often depicted on coins, bore a striking resemblance to the modern heart shape.
Another theory postulates that the heart symbol arose from the depiction of ivy leaves, which were associated with fidelity and eternal love in ancient Greece. Similarly, the heart shape can be seen in ancient depictions of the fig leaf, which carried connotations of fertility and abundance.
In 14th century Medieval Europe, the now-ubiquitous heart shape started to signify love. Heart jewellery in the iconic shape started to emerge, as did poetry that further linked hearts to their symbolism of love.
It was also the time of Geoffrey Chaucer, coinciding with the approach of Valentine’s Day. In 1382, after five years of negotiations, Anne of Bohemia wed Richard II of England. To celebrate their union, Chaucer penned a love poem called “The Parliament of Fowls,” which references Valentine’s Day.
Chaucer wasn't the only poet associating Valentine’s Day to romance; French poet Oton de Grandson wrote “Saint Valentine's Dream.” This surge of heart-related themes sparked a wave of heart imagery — appearing on books (including heart-shaped volumes!), tapestries, and, of course, heart-shaped jewellery.
For the next few centuries, heart jewellery came into and out of fashion. Queen Victoria cemented heart jewellery’s popularity and its ties to love in the 19th century. With pieces such as a multi-charm heart bracelet and a heart pendant necklace, she showcased how meaningful this jewellery style can be.
A Symbol of Love and Connection
At the core of heart-shaped jewellery's popularity is its association with love and romance. Whether it's a simple pendant or an intricately designed ring, the heart symbol speaks a universal language of affection and emotional bonds. It is often gifted on special occasions such as anniversaries, Valentine's Day, or birthdays, serving as a tangible expression of love and a reminder of cherished relationships.
Antique Georgian 18ct Yellow Gold ‘Heart’ Shaped Locket Circa 1790 (SOLD)
Heart Jewellery in Antiquity
The use of heart motifs in jewellery can be traced back to ancient civilisations, where they were often imbued with spiritual significance. In ancient Egypt, heart amulets, known as "ib," were believed to house the soul and were worn to ensure protection in the afterlife. These amulets were commonly crafted from red stones such as carnelian, symbolising vitality and rebirth.
The ancient Greeks and Romans also embraced heart symbolism, often incorporating heart-shaped motifs into rings and pendants. For them, the heart was seen as the seat of emotion, particularly love and passion. Heart-shaped jewellery from this era was often exchanged between lovers as a token of affection and commitment.
Antique Mid-Victorian 15ct Yellow Gold Amethyst Heart Locket Pendant (CLICK HERE)
The Middle Ages and the Renaissance
During the Middle Ages, the heart symbol began to take on a more romantic connotation, largely influenced by the era's chivalric traditions and courtly love. Heart-shaped lockets and brooches became popular among the nobility, often engraved with mottos or initials as a testament to unyielding devotion.
The Renaissance period saw a flourishing of artistic expression, and heart jewellery became more elaborate and ornate. Jewellers of this era crafted intricate pieces using precious metals and gemstones, often incorporating religious iconography.
Antique Australian 15ct Yellow Gold Amethyst Heart Pendant/Brooch Circa 1910 (SOLD)
Embracing Modern Designs
While the classic heart shape remains a staple, contemporary designers are reimagining it in innovative ways. Asymmetrical hearts, abstract interpretations, and mixed-media designs have given the traditional motif a modern twist. These fresh takes on the heart shape appeal to those seeking unique and avant-garde pieces that still carry the timeless symbolism of love and connection.
Antique Australian 15ct Rose Gold And Pearl Puffy Heart By Duggin, Shappere And Co. Circa 1915 (SOLD)
