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Throughout history, the symbol of the compass has held meaning, offering something for everyone. While the compass is ideal for travelers, adventurers, and free spirits, pretty much everyone can relate to some of its symbolism. Let’s take a look at the meanings and symbolism of the compass and what makes it such an ideal symbol for jewelry, and especially for travel lovers!
What Is the Compass?
To understand why the compass is popular amongst jewelry lovers, we need to take a quick look into the history of the compass.
Early compasses were created in China, where they were used as a navigation device. Compasses were significant for sea navigation and were used by sailors and travelers. Over time, other types of compasses were created in Medieval Europe and Middle East and its usage spread.
The magnetic compass is the most familiar of all compass types and is known for ability to perform one function – to always point north. Even today, centuries after it was first invented and with all our technological advancements, the compass is still a useful device and is constantly used by those who need to find direction.
What Does the Compass Symbolize?
A lot of the time when we choose a symbol for jewelry, we pick a symbol that means something to us, and the compass is one of the most symbolic designs you could choose. What makes the compass so meaningful is its habit of always pointing north. If you know how to use it, you can never really get lost if you have a compass. Here’s what it represents.
- Guidance and Orientation – At its core, the compass is a tool used for finding direction, showing you which direction you’re facing. It symbolizes finding your way through the journey of life. Like the North Star, another symbol of guidance, the compass represents making decisions that will lead you down the right path.
- Travel and Adventure – The very word compass comes from the Latin com meaning together and passus meaning step or pace. It literally means to step together. This is one reason the compass is a favorite symbol for those who love to ‘step together’.
- Independence – As a device that shows you where to go and takes you there, using a compass signifies independence and the willingness to move out of your comfort zone. Wearing the compass symbol is a sign of independence and confidence that comes from knowing that no matter what, you’ll always find your way.
- Stability and Security – When you know where you are and where you’re headed, you feel safe and stable. A compass represents the reassurance that, no matter what, you will be able to find your way.
- Motivation and Inspiration – A compass symbolizes motivation because it helps you to move and shows you the way to follow your path. And finally, compasses have always symbolized inspiration as it shows you which way is north. Throughout history, north has symbolized progress and advancement (whereas south symbolizes things going wrong).
- Freedom – A compass symbolizes freedom, the ability to orient yourself and to go wherever your heart desires without constraints.
Compass Jewelry Designs
Taking all the above factors into consideration, it’s easy to see why the compass has become a well-loved symbol for jewelry lovers. Here are some ideas on how to wear the compass style.
1. Compass Pendants
There is something very classic about wearing the compass symbol on a pendant. The compass is a versatile symbol and lends itself to be styled in many ways. As you can see from the two images below, one pendant is stylish and modern whereas the other evokes nostalgia and has an antique charm to it.
Choose a pendant to suit your style. You can also opt for a minimalist pendant, like this one, or a louder statement piece, like this.
2. Compass Rings
This is a popular way to wear the compass symbol in jewelry. You could opt to wear a cocktail compass ring or something subtler like the ring featured here. Because of the symbol’s perfectly proportionate shape, it looks beautiful on any finger regardless of size.
3. Compass Charms
This is an excellent way to incorporate the symbolism of the compass into your jewelry without making it the focal point. Compass charms work beautifully on bracelets as well as in floating lockets.
4. Compass Earrings
While you won’t really be able to see your compass earrings, they’ll be visible to everyone else. Choose minimalist round compass studs for an everyday look and dangle earrings for a dressier look.
5. Compass Bracelets
Compass bracelets are perfect as friendship bracelets or in a matching style as a couple bracelets. When crafted into masculine designs, compass bracelets are ideal for men.
When to Give Compass Jewelry
Being such a versatile symbol full of meaning, compass jewelry is perfect for almost all occasions. Here are some gifting ideas:
- As a graduation gift to signify finding one’s path in life and moving in the right direction.
- As a Valentine’s day gift to a loved one, symbolizing that you will always be there for that person. It could also imply that you would be lost without them.
- As an anniversary gift to a partner to suggest that they are the compass of your family/life.
- To a loved one or friend about to embark on a journey to symbolize safety and being on the right path.
- As a wedding gift to your other half to symbolize starting a new chapter, heading in the right direction together.
Where to Buy Compass Jewelry
While many top retailers sometimes carry compass jewelry, we recommend taking your search to online marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon. The options are endless and prices are often more competitive than at brick and mortar stores.
As we can see, the compass is a beautiful and stylish symbol for any type of jewelry and suits a range of occasions as the perfect jewelry gift. Happy shopping!
