Heart Symbology: Love, Life, Emotion, and Dance

It seems that the heart has been the most popular symbol of love since the beginning of human history. In addition to love, the heart symbolizes the soul and the center of emotion and consciousness.

Much of the historical information on heart symbology dates to the early Egyptians. The Egyptians had one word - "ab" - for a combined "heart-soul," which they believed was possessed by each human being. They also considered the heart to be the giver of life. For this reason, Egyptian mother's referred to their children as their "heart's blood."

The Egyptians also recognized the importance of movement as a symbol of life and being. They honored the movement of the heart by comparing it to dance. The hieroglyphic sign for the heart-soul was a dancing figure, which was also used as a verb meaning "to dance." According to The Woman's Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets [offsite link], "[t]his referred to the dance of life going on inside the body - the heartbeat." Similarly, in ancient India, sages taught that the human heartbeat was the basis for the tempos of music, dance, and poetry.

The Christian religions also embraced heart symbology early in their history. An example is the Catholic belief in Jesus' "Sacred Heart." Christians also recognize the heart as the center of human emotion. Eastern religions observed a similar symbology in the "Sacred Heart of Shiva." And the Islam religion considers the heart to be the center of spirituality.

I "Heart" a Heart (But What is That Thing, Anyway?)

The heart symbol, with its double humps and pointy bottom, is recognized by all major human cultures.

Of course, the popular "heart shape" which is used so frequently in jewelry design today looks nothing like a real human heart. (Thank goodness.) So what is the origin of this cute little, minimalist shape we so adore? Bob Bankard of PhillyBurbs.com has one interesting theory, involving ancient seed pods and birth control [offsite link].

Other sources report that the heart symbol originates from the ancient symbol for the Roman figure Nimrod, who was worshipped as a god under the name "Baal." In the language of the ancient Babylonians, the word "bal" meant "heart." The similarity between this word and the name "Baal" is thought to be a significant connection between Nimrod and the modern-day heart symbol.

The ultra-symbolic site symbols.com describes a different heart-shape origin, one owing to the shape's similarity to the symbols for "fire" and "flight" in the Middle Ages - and to the symbol for Aries. Howstuffworks.com provides a somewhat simpler theory - that the heart symbol was created by early peoples attempting to drawing images of a human organ they'd never seen.

Hearts in Fashion Jewelry

The heart symbol has always been popular in jewelry, whether sentimental or symbolic. Egyptian mummies were often adorned with heart amulet necklaces. These hearts were carved from red stone, and were thought to provide the human body with renewed vitality.

The Irish claddagh, another early example of heart jewelry, is a classic design depicting two hands holding a heart. Claddagh rings have served as traditional wedding bands for centuries. Heart-shaped pins and badges have also been used to symbolize valor, commitment, and sacrifice. The U.S. military Bronze Heart and Purple Heart are examples of this.

Modern day heart-themed jewelry is popular all year, and there are millions of designs to choose from. This year, try something sleek and simple that can be worn alone or layered with other pieces. Or, pick up a special keepsake with a little bit of history. The romantic symbol of the heart was overwhelmingly popular during the Victorian and Victorian Revival periods. Browse your favorite antiques mall or vintage jewelry website for the perfect find.

One Last Word about Valentine's Day . . .

Valentine's Day, like so many holidays in modern society, is much hyped and highly commercialized. In reality, February 14th can be fun and happy, "just another day," or even a bit of a downer. So remember to take some time to relax - and treat yourself to something you enjoy and cherish - whether it's a piece of fashion jewelry you adore, a heart-shaped sugar cookie, or a quiet walk in the park.

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