Symbol of Love: Heart-Shaped Jewels for Valentine’s Day

February 9, 2024

By Livia Primo Lack

9 min read

February 14th is fast approaching, and with that comes a parade of red and pink heart-shaped jewels. Let’s learn more about this famous shape and how it became a symbol of endless love, passion, commitment and all things in between!

We are only a few rotations away from Valentine’s Day, the one day a year dedicated to celebrating all things love, especially the people we hold dear. Whether it’s a romantic partner or an important friendship that you want to shout about, a heart-shaped piece of jewellery is a go-to present for such an occasion. But why this shape? And why has it become such an icon of Saint Valentine?

Nava Joaillerie heart ring in gold and diamond

Nava Joaillerie heart pendant in gold and diamond

The heart shape has a long and important history in the design realm that dates back hundreds of years. There are many legends about its origin– one of which states that the first version of the shape was inspired by the seeds of a plant located in modern-day Libya that was historically used as a form of birth control. Another says that its prominence comes from the Middle Ages, where drawing of the shape could be found around the texts of poets and philosophers. In any case, through the writings of these medieval poets, the heart shape has become the shape most associated with love, romance and passion.

Tiffany & Co. necklace in gold

The modern-day heart shape that we use today was first seen during the Renaissance when images of the iconic form were seen in letters sent between members of higher economic classes, as well as being included in drawings, literature and painting. One of our favourite stories about hearts in jewellery is that of the Claddagh ring, a ring style that dates back to the 17th century and which is attributed to Richard Joyce, a Galway villager whose ship was seized and he was taken into slavery by Algerian coursers who gave him to a goldsmith as an assistant. During the 14 years he was held captive, he trained in the art of goldsmithing and created a ring which he hoped to one day bring back to his beloved, who was waiting for him in the small town of Claddagh. The design consisted of a solid gold heart surrounded by two hands, topped with a crown, which he was able to give to his future bride in person after King Richard demanded that all subjects be released from service and slavery. To this day, the Claddagh ring design is an important motif in Celtic jewellery, with many using it as an engagement ring as well as a promise ring or to symbolise eternal partnership.

Fallers Claddagh ring in gold and diamond

Fallers Claddagh ring in gold

Another great way to include the heart shape in a piece of jewellery is through heart-shaped stones. Creating this precise gem cut is particularly challenging, as gem cutters must investigate the physical structure of the gem to ensure perfect symmetry and excellent proportions, as well as maintain the maximum amount of carat weight. Not all gem cutters can create this shape, as it requires an added course of training.

Picchiotti ring in white gold, ruby and diamond

Graff Tribal earrings in white gold, ruby and diamond

Caratell Destiny ring in white gold, rose gold, pink diamond and diamond

Chopard high jewellery necklace in white gold, ruby and diamond

Simone Jewels Portraits of Porcelain ring in gold, Paraiba tourmaline, jade and diamond

The pieces below are just a few beautiful heart-shaped creations that celebrate love, friendship and romance. Let us know which one is on your Valentine’s Day wishlist!

Never Not

Never Not

Caratell

Caratell

Zeemou Zeng

Zeemou Zeng

Guzema

Guzema

Pelham

Pelham

Auroro

Auroro

Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany & Co.

Pragnell

Pragnell

Simone Jewels

Simone Jewels

Ileana Makri

Ileana Makri

Ellie Top

Ellie Top

Genevieve Schwartz

Genevieve Schwartz

Fabergé

Fabergé

David Webb

David Webb

Chris Ploof

Chris Ploof

Carerra Y Carrera

Carerra Y Carrera

Carerra Y Carrera

Carerra Y Carrera

Chopard

Chopard

Loquet London

Loquet London

Nava Joaillerie

Nava Joaillerie

State Property Utama

State Property Utama

Marina B

Marina B

Rock by GS

Rock by GS

Cédille

Cédille

ANANYA

ANANYA

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