Handmade sterling silver cuff bangle with 18 carat gold accents set with opals, moonstones & amethyst by Paul’s Bolton from the Monet reflections jewellery range available;e from Twelve Silver Trees Jewellery

Hidden Symbolism- The Water Lily In Jewellery

The Timeless Elegance of Water Lily Jewellery: History, Symbolism, and Birth Month Significance
Handmade sterling silver stud earrings with 18 carat gold accents, set with amethyst and opal, inspired by monets water lily impressionist paintings


The water lily, with its serene beauty and elegant form, has long captivated the hearts of many. This enchanting flower has not only inspired artists and poets but also has a rich history in jewellery design. In this blog post, we'll delve into the history and symbolism of the water lily, explore its significance as a birth month flower, and uncover fascinating facts that make this flower a timeless motif in jewellery 

The History of Water Lily Jewellery

Water lilies have been cherished across various cultures for centuries, symbolising purity, beauty, and enlightenment. In ancient Egypt, the water lily, often referred to as the lotus, was a symbol of rebirth and creation. It was frequently depicted in art and used in jewellery to represent the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Pharaohs and queens adorned themselves with water lily motifs, signifying their divine connection and eternal life.

In the Victorian era, when flower symbolism was at its peak, the water lily became a popular motif in jewellery. Known for its association with purity and spiritual enlightenment, the water lily was often crafted in delicate pieces of silver and gold, sometimes accented with pearls or gemstones to enhance its natural beauty. This era saw the rise of romantic and nature-inspired designs, with the water lily being a favourite among jewellery enthusiasts.

Image of Twelve silver trees jewellery bestselling water lily costume jewellery brooch in green enamel and faux pearls in an art nouveau style



The Symbolism of the Water Lily in Jewellery

The water lily carries profound symbolism, making it a meaningful choice for jewellery. Across different cultures, the water lily symbolises purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, the water lily (or lotus) is a powerful spiritual symbol representing the journey of the soul towards enlightenment. Just as the flower rises from the mud to bloom beautifully on the water's surface, it symbolises the ability to rise above difficulties and achieve spiritual purity.

In Western culture, the water lily represents purity of heart, tranquility, and peace. Its ability to float gracefully on the water, seemingly untainted by the dirt beneath, makes it a powerful symbol of inner beauty and resilience. Incorporating water lily motifs into jewellery not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the piece but also imbues it with these deep, symbolic meanings.

Sterling silver birth flower stud earrings

The Water Lily as a Birth Month Flower

While the water lily is not traditionally associated with a specific birth month in Western culture, it holds significant meaning in various cultural contexts. However, those born in July can particularly resonate with the water lily, as it is one of the flowers that thrive during this month. The water lily’s association with July reflects its symbolism of rebirth and renewal, making it an ideal gift for those celebrating birthdays in the mid-summer month.

Jewellery featuring water lilies makes for a thoughtful and symbolic gift for anyone born in July, embodying the qualities of purity, resilience, and enlightenment that the flower represents.

Interesting Facts About Water Lilies
  • - Diverse Species: Water lilies belong to the Nymphaeaceae family and include about 60 species. They come in various colours, including white, pink, yellow, and blue, each carrying its own unique symbolism. White water lilies, for instance, symbolise purity and peace, while blue water lilies represent wisdom and knowledge.
  • - Cultural Significance: In ancient Egypt, water lilies were often used in burial practices, symbolising the deceased’s hope for rebirth in the afterlife. The flower’s ability to open in the morning and close at night also made it a symbol of the sun and creation.
  • - Art and Literature: The water lily has been a subject of fascination for many artists, most notably Claude Monet, whose series of water lily paintings are among the most celebrated works of art in history. The flower’s serene beauty and the way it interacts with water and light have made it a timeless symbol in art and literature.
  • - Healing Properties: In traditional medicine, parts of the water lily plant have been used for their soothing and healing properties. The roots and flowers have been used in herbal remedies to treat ailments like inflammation and anxiety.

Conclusion

The water lily’s timeless beauty and profound symbolism make it a beloved motif in jewellery design. Whether you’re drawn to its history, its cultural significance, or its association with purity and enlightenment, water lily jewellery offers a unique way to connect with nature’s elegance. Explore the stunning water lily pieces at Twelve Silver Trees Jewellery & Gifts and bring a touch of serenity and beauty into your jewellery collection.

Monet inspirations handmade sterling silver bracelet with amethyst, and rainbow moonstone available from Twelve Silver Trees jewellery and gifts

Water Lily Jewellery at  Twelve Silver Trees Jewellery & Gifts

At Twelve Silver Trees, we celebrate the beauty and symbolism of the water lily through our exquisite jewellery collections. Each piece is crafted with attention to detail, capturing the delicate elegance of the water lily. Whether you're looking for a necklace, bracelet, or earrings, our water lily-inspired pieces are designed to bring a touch of nature's beauty into your everyday life.

Our collection is not only a tribute to the water lily's aesthetic appeal but also a celebration of its rich history and deep symbolism. Whether you're purchasing a piece for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, water lily jewellery from Twelve Silver Trees is sure to be cherished for years to come.

Discover The Herbarium Collection for more flower themed Jewellery & Gifts

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