A person’s faith is often the grounding element in their life. Whether as a talisman or reflection to others of their lifestyle, jewelry can be the best choice for representation. Worn close to the heart on many, it serves as a reminder to the wearer and those who observe it of the commitment made. Jewelry worn for religious reasons can also be a signifier in life-saving circumstances as some religions have certain rules about medical procedures. Here’s our guide when it comes to different symbols of faith in jewelry.
The Cross
The cross, symbolic of the passion and death of Jesus Christ, is often the focal point in Christian jewelry. It can be worn on anything from rings, a necklace or bracelet, to cufflinks. Perhaps lesser known is the ichthys, two intersecting arcs that resemble a fish, whose meaning in Greek is “Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior”. The ichthys looks best on a linked tennis bracelet or stud earrings.
The Crucifix
The crucifix, closely related to the cross in Christianity, has one major difference: it includes the image of Jesus on the cross. You will often see it worn as a pendant on a necklace or rosary by those that belong to Catholicism. Its focus on the suffering of Christ serves as a powerful reminder of God’s love.
Allah and Star + Crescent Moon
The word Allah written in calligraphy that uses characters of the Arabic alphabet is the most notable symbol in Muslim jewelry. Inscribed on a gold pendant or in diamonds on a charm, it can be worn on a bracelet, anklet, or necklace. Another significant symbol for followers of Islam is a floating star inside a crescent moon. It signifies the crescent of a new moon at the beginning and ending of fasting during Ramadan.
Dharmashakra and Buddha
Dharmachakra, also known as the wheel of the law or wheel of dharma, is the most important symbol in Buddhism. Most commonly seen as a wheel with eight spokes, which symbolizes the Eightfold Path, it is often worn as a gold charm or pendant. Often, followers elect to wear a pendant that depicts the entire body of Buddha out of respect and reflection on his teachings.
Om
One of the most well-known symbols of Hinduism is the Om, a word that stands for a combination of all sounds used in the human language. Most often, it is worn written in the Devanagari script and its shape is perfect for something with a surface, such as a signet ring or coin-shaped pendant.
Star of David
By far, the quintessential symbol of Judaism is its Star of David. Also called the Magen David, meaning the Shield of David, it is a six-pointed star made up of two equilateral triangles that superimpose each other. It is most often worn in the form of a small star pendant paired with a simple chain.
Yin-Yang
A popular icon for believers and non-believers in Taosim, the black and white circle yin-yang represents a concept that originated in Chinese philosophy, an opposite but interconnected, self-perpetuating cycle. Because it celebrates connection, you will see this symbol worn across
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