Monday

Symbolic Jewelry: the Dragonfly

Black Hills Gold Dragonfly Pendant

Sterling Silver Multi Stone Dragonfly Pendant

Nature is well represented in jewelry.  An abundance of flowers, birds, animals, and insects can all be found stylized, etched, embossed, and engraved in rings, bracelets, pendants and charms.  One of the most popular creatures represented in jewelry is the dragonfly.  The reason why is that dragonflies are intriguing and mean many diverse things to different cultures.  The Japanese hold the dragonfly as a powerful symbol because legend equates the shape of the island chain to a dragonfly and history indicates that at one time Japan may have been known as the Dragonfly Islands.  The Samurai used the symbol to exemplify power, agility and victory.  To the Chinese, the dragonfly meant good luck, peace, prosperity, and maturity of character.  To other cultures, the insect represented self awareness, living for the moment, and the ability to change for the better.  Of course, as with most things, the Europeans and early Americans saw the dragonfly in an entirely different light.   Known as the “Devil’s Needle”, the “Eye Snatcher” and the “Snake Doctor”, the dragonfly was not seen positively.  To them, the insect was something sinister that should be feared.  Regardless of cultural inclinations, there is an assortment of colorful and attractive dragonfly jewelry that can be discovered and enjoyed.