Heart, star, shell... the meaning behind the symbols on your jewelry

Updated on: July 28, 2026 | Maison de l'Amour

1. Why symbols carry so much meaning

People have always worn jewelry not only for its beauty, but for what it tells. A heart pendant given as a gift, an engraved star, a shell brought back from vacation: these small symbols become personal talismans, filled with memories and intentions. Here are the most popular ones and what they mean, to help you choose the one that reflects you.

2. The heart: love in all its forms

The most universal of symbols. The heart expresses love, affection, and attachment, whether romantic, familial, or friendly. It is the ultimate gift jewelry piece, the one you give to say “I’m thinking of you.” Discover our heart charm bracelets and our necklaces. To choose between charms, a bangle, and a chain, see which bracelet to choose.

3. The star: the guiding light

The star symbolizes hope, direction, and inner light. Give it to wish someone the strength to follow their path, or wear it as a reminder of your own dreams. An ideal choice for marking a milestone or a new beginning, like our LOUNA Necklace with dangling stars.

4. The shell & starfish: femininity and freedom

Symbols of the sea, they evoke femininity, travel, and freedom. Perfect for keeping the spirit of summer alive all year round, or for holding on to the memory of a beloved place.

5. The sun: energy and positivity

The sun radiates optimism, vitality, and renewal. Wearing it means surrounding yourself with positive energy every day. A lovely idea for a radiant person, available in our HELENA Necklace with sun charms.

6. The cross: faith, protection, and heritage

A powerful spiritual symbol, the cross is also worn today as a heritage or style piece of jewelry, beyond religion. Learn more in our dedicated article: do you have to be religious to wear a cross?

7. And also…

• The moon: femininity, intuition, and the cycles of life.
• The eye: protection against negative energy.
• The clover: luck and small joys.

 

Frequently asked questions

Which symbol should you give to someone you love?

The heart remains a safe choice. For a close friend, the star (“you shine”) or the sun (“you radiate”) are lovely personal gestures.

Can you wear several symbols together?

Of course! It is even very trendy. Discover how to combine them in our guide to jewelry layering.

Does symbolic jewelry make a good gift?

It is one of the most beautiful gifts: it carries a personal message that lasts. And treating yourself to one is just as meaningful: it is even a true act of self-care. For Christmas, find our ideas in our selection of Christmas gifts.

Do your symbolic jewelry pieces tarnish?

No: made of gold-tone stainless steel, they are waterproof, hypoallergenic, and do not tarnish. Your symbols go everywhere with you without wearing out.