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The tree of life symbol has become a popular in jewelry and this popularity doesn’t seem to be declining.
For centuries, the tree of life has been a highly symbolic design to many cultures around the world. There is something about the tree of life that is inspiring, grounding and calming. It is a universal symbol that transcends religions and cultures and no one group can claim this symbol for themselves.
Let’s take a look at why the tree of life is such a popular symbol and how you can choose your own tree of life jewelry.
What is the Meaning of the Tree of Life?
The tree of life is typically depicted as a large tree with spreading branches and roots, reaching up high and down below respectively, and is contained within a circle. The symbol has many spiritual and religious meanings and can be interpreted in many ways. Here are some of the universal representations of the tree of life:
1. Interconnectedness
The tree of life represents how everything is interconnected. We don’t exist in a vacuum but are connected with the world around us. The circular aspect of the symbol represents the world and the tree represents everything in it. It also shows a cyclical structure with everything connected.
2. Stability, Strength and Growth
A tree is a symbol of stability and strength. We use the metaphor of a tree with roots spreading into the ground to talk about strength, stability and being grounded. It also symbolizes growth as a tree is the result of years of slow, patient growth from a vulnerable sapling to a sturdy tree.
3. Individuality
Every tree is unique and has its own characteristics, if you look for them. Thus, a tree of life symbolizes this aspect of trees. At the start, all trees look alike but as they grow, each tree becomes unique, with no two trees are exactly alike. As time passes, trees gain character and beauty, weathering all sorts of trials and challenges to remain strong and upright. Like the tree, we too are different and the tree of life reminds us of that.
4. Rebirth
A tree may lose its leaves and appear to be dead, but when the conditions are right, the tree comes back to life, with beautiful leaves appearing again. As such, the tree of life symbolizes rebirth and getting through the hard times. It represents a fresh start, a new leaf turned over.
5. Fertility and Family
The word tree is often used to talk about the connection to family and to ancestors. We say family tree to symbolize the many family links to various people through the generations.
A tree is symbolic of fertility in that it finds a way to perpetuate, whether by seed or sapling. It is green and lush, all signals of fertility and vitality.
6. Calmness, Peace and Relaxation
There is something about being under a large tree that invokes a sense of strength, peace and relaxation. This is a feeling that we rarely receive from any other thing. A tree rarely is flustered. Rather, it is calm and peaceful, quietly giving and nourishing.
Types of Tree of Life Jewelry
Tree of life jewelry is highly popular and is often paired with birthstones or healing stones to add a further layer of meaning. There is no single accepted way to depict the tree of life, meaning that designers are free to create the symbol as they wish, sometimes stylized and at other times, in more traditional ways. Here are some of the most popular ways to sport tree of life jewelry.
- Tree of Life Charms
Tree of life charms are perfect for a more subtle way to keep the symbol nearby. They fit perfectly on bracelets, watches or necklaces and they also tend to be very affordable.
- Tree of Life Necklace
Tree of life pendants are probably the most popular option as they look stylish with their perfect symmetry. As these are made from a variety of materials and in a range of styles, from bohemian to classic to minimalist, there’s something for everyone.
- Tree of Life Earrings
Tree of life earrings are eye-catching and beautiful but the only downside is that you won’t be able to see them. If the purpose of wearing a piece of tree of life jewelry is more than just a fashion statement, you might want to wear it where you can see it.
- Tree of Life Rings
Tree of life rings are often very creative and quite unique. These are usually in the form of a statement piece but you can also find minimalist ones. On your finger, a tree of life ring is a constant reminder of what this piece means to you.
- Tree of Life Bracelets
Tree of life bracelets are usually bohemian in style, ideal for casual attire. They’re unisex and are a favorite among men. You can also find more stylish options like this adjustable tree of life bracelet.
History of Tree of Life Jewelry
This symbol has links to religion, philosophy and spirituality and can be traced back to almost all ancient cultures. The idea of the tree of life has existed for almost as long as humans have.
- Tree of Life in Celtic Culture
In Celtic culture, the tree of life is often represented with the branches reaching upwards and the roots spreading deep into the ground. This is a representation of the Druid belief of the connection between heaven and earth. The Celts believed that trees were human ancestors, with trees even believed to be doors to other worlds.
- Buddhism and Tree of Life
In Buddhist tradition, the Bodhi tree has always been revered, as it was under this tree that the Buddha attained enlightenment. The Bo tree represents the path to enlightenment and as such, is symbolic of life.
- Ancient Egypt and the Tree of Life
In ancient Egypt, it was believed that the tree of life was a symbol of both death and abundance, with the branches representing the heavens, the tree symbolic of the center of the universe and the roots reaching down into the underworld.
- Christian References to Tree of Life
In the Bible, Adam and Eve were not allowed to eat from the tree of life, which would have enabled them to live eternally. This tree is often seen as a representation of the love of God. In the Book of Proverbs, the writer links the tree of life with wisdom. Therefore, even in Christian symbolism, the tree of life holds significance.
- African Culture and Tree of Life
In African cultures, the baobab tree (also known as the bottle tree) is generally known as the tree of life. This is because the baobab tree stores water and produces fruit, even in arid and harsh climates. It is often seen as a life-saver during desperate times and the tree is respected and looked after as such.
- Tree of Life in Turkish Culture
Like the nazar boncugu, also known as the evil eye symbol, the tree of life is a central symbol in Turkish culture. It is commonly seen in carpets and other handicrafts.
Should I Wear the Tree of Life?
The tree of life is more than just a religious or spiritual symbol. Anyone can wear it and it can hold meaning for everyone. The symbol holds no negative connotations and is respected by most cultures.
Whether you should wear this design is a choice that only you can make. Decide what the symbol means to you and why you would like to wear it. If it simply a fashion choice, that is still fine too.
Where to Buy Tree of Life Jewelry
Because of its popularity, the tree of life symbol is an easy one to find in most jewelry stores, whether physical or online. However, for the most options, we recommend taking your search online. However, always do your due diligence to ensure you aren’t getting ripped off.
Etsy – Search on Etsy for artisan designs and vintage jewelry. There’s a wide range of quality designs across various stores for easy comparison.
Amazon – For a massive range of designs, check on Amazon. You can see customer reviews, competitive prices and you can take advantage of Amazon’s after sales policies and easily compare and contrast many pieces before you choose the one you want.
