The History of Heart Jewelry: A Timeless Symbol of Love

You’ll find “heart” transcending across cultures as an expression of love. Whether it’s through jewelry, poetry, literature, or history, hearts have been universally accepted as relating to love.

Heart Jewelry should be a staple in every woman’s fashion collection. Commonly purchased around Valentine’s Day, Heart Jewelry has come to be associated with feelings of love, both platonic and romantic. But what is the history behind the practice of adorning one’s wrists, neck, and ears with this shape? USA Jewels offers to illuminate the answer by providing a bit of history. 

Its origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when heart imagery began appearing in religious art and manuscripts, often representing spiritual love and devotion. By the late medieval period, the heart shape became associated with romantic love. Much of the poetry from this time period connects the heart of feelings of love. Wealthy individuals in the 15th and 16th centuries often exchanged heart-shaped pendants as tokens of affection or betrothal.

During the Georgian and Victorian eras, heart jewelry gained immense popularity as a symbol of enduring love. Lockets and pendants often featured intricate designs, such as floral motifs or gemstone embellishments, and were used to hold keepsakes like portraits, hair, or notes. Double-heart designs, symbolizing two hearts intertwined, became especially popular during this time. The Victorian fascination with sentimentality and mourning also gave rise to heart-shaped mourning jewelry, crafted to honor lost loved ones. 

Queen Victoria is perhaps the most well known for her love of heart-shaped jewelry. She was known to wear a heart pendant necklace and heart bracelet with multiple charms which supposedly represented her children. Her pendant was a locket featuring hair from Prince Albert as a child, and she also wore a charm bracelet with multiple heart charms in gold and enamel. She is credited with bringing the heart motif to light.

During World War I and II, sweetheart jewelry became increasingly popular as a way to remember those that were serving in the war. People would often wear silver heart necklaces or bracelets to reminisce of their loved ones. Today, many heart pendant necklaces echo this jewelry with lockets and romantic designs. 

Modern jewelry still emulates this through vintage inspired designs! It has become a staple for romantic gifts, particularly for anniversaries, engagements and other meaningful celebrations. Whether crafted in precious metals, adorned with diamonds, or designed in minimalist styles, heart jewelry continues to embody love in all its forms, making it a cherished piece for generations.

Whether it’s a necklace, a bracelet, or earrings, heart-shaped jewelry makes for a wonderful edition to one’s collection. Browse the USAJEWELs collection of heart-shaped jewelry for your perfect fit!