Love is a complex and multifaceted emotion that is expressed and represented in many different ways. From the heart symbol to the infinity rose, there are countless symbols that have been used to represent love and all of its different forms.
In this article, we will explore 23 common symbols of love and their meanings, offering insights into the history and significance of each symbol.
Whether you’re looking for a unique way to express your love for someone special or simply want to learn more about the various symbols that are associated with this powerful emotion, this article has something for everyone.
23 Common Symbols Of Love And Their Meanings
1) The Heart
The heart shape is an ideograph used to express the idea of the “heart” in its metaphorical or symbolic sense as the center of emotion, including affection and love, especially romantic love. The “wounded heart” indicating lovesickness came to be depicted as a heart symbol pierced with an arrow (Cupid’s) or a heart symbol “broken” in two or more pieces.
2) Three-Leaf Clover
The three-leaf clover is one of the most common symbols of love. It is often used to represent the Holy Trinity and has a long history of being associated with good luck. The three leaves of the clover are said to represent faith, hope, and love. This makes the three-leaf clover a famous symbol for weddings and other romantic occasions. The three-leaf clover is sometimes used to symbolize the Irish people or Ireland itself.
3) The Rose
The rose is the quintessential symbol of love. Its meaning varies depending on the color of the rose, but all roses symbolize love, gratitude, and appreciation. Red roses are the most popular and are often given on Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. Pink roses represent appreciation and gratitude, while white roses indicate innocence and purity. Yellow roses signal joy and friendship, while orange roses show enthusiasm and passion.
4) Anahata Heart Chakra – Asian Chakras
The Anahata Heart Chakra is one of the most critical chakras in Asian cultures. It is believed to be the chakra of unconditional love and compassion. This chakra is located at the center of the chest and is associated with the color green or pink. The Anahata Heart Chakra is said to be opened when we experience true love, compassion, and forgiveness.
5) Maple Leaves
When it comes to symbols of love, maple leaves are often overlooked. But in many cultures, these beautiful leaves represent the sweetness of love. For example, two maple leaves symbolize marital bliss and happiness in China.
In Japan, maple leaves are associated with a different kind of love – the kind that’s passionate and short-lived. This is because the Japanese word for maple leaf, Momiji, can also mean “crimson” or “red.” So when you give someone a gift with a maple leaf motif, you’re conveying your deep feelings for them.
Whether a small token or a grand gesture, giving someone a gift adorned with maple leaves will surely fill them with warmth and happiness.
6) Triskeles – The Love Knot
The triskele, also known as the love knot, is a common symbol of love. The three interlocking loops represent the three stages of a relationship: falling in love, being in love, and staying in love. The never-ending loops represent the infinite nature of love.
Many couples get tattoos of the triskele because it reminds them of their everlasting love for each other. Others may wear the symbol as a necklace or ring. No matter how worn, the triskele is a beautiful symbol of eternal love.
7) Seashells
Seashells have been used for centuries to represent love, passion, and desire.
The most popular seashells for this purpose are the conch and scallop shells. The conch shell is often seen as a symbol of fertility and new beginnings, while the scallop shell symbolizes love and devotion.
Seashells are also often given as gifts to loved ones. They can be used to decorate homes or given as jewelry. Whatever the form, seashells are a beautiful way to show someone you care.
8) Apple
Apple trees are a common symbol of love because their fruit is associated with the heart. The apple is also a symbol of fertility and abundance. In many cultures, the apple is a sacred fruit believed to have magical properties.
For centuries, the apple has been a symbol of love in art and literature. In Greek mythology, the goddess Aphrodite gave an apple to Paris as a sign of her love for him. In the Middle Ages, apples were often given as gifts on Valentine’s Day.
The apple is still used as a symbol of love today. It is often given as a gift on anniversaries and Valentine’s Day and is used in many romantic songs and poems.
9) Celtic Love Symbols
Celtic love symbols are very popular among people looking to show their love for one another. There are many different Celtic love symbols that you can choose from, each with its special meaning.
One of the most popular Celtic love symbols is the Claddagh ring. The Claddagh ring is a symbol of friendship, love, and loyalty. It is also said to bring good luck to those who wear it.
Another famous Celtic love symbol is the Celtic knot. The Celtic knot is a symbol of eternal love and friendship. It is also said to represent the never-ending cycle of life.
If you are looking for a way to show your loved ones how much you care about them, consider giving them a gift with a Celtic love symbol.
10) The Claddagh Ring
The Claddagh ring is a symbol of love that has been around for centuries. The ring comprises two hands holding a heart, with a crown on top. The Claddagh ring means that the wearer is “letting the world know that their heart is spoken for.”
The Claddagh ring originated in Ireland, and it is said that the first ring was made by Richard Joyce, who was captured by pirates and sold into slavery. He eventually escaped and made his way back to Ireland, where he used his skills as a goldsmith to create the first Claddagh ring.
The Claddagh ring has become a famous symbol of love worldwide and is often given as a gift to someone we care deeply about.
11) Rose Quartz
Rose quartz is a pink or rose-colored stone found in many different parts of the world. The pink color of rose quartz represents unconditional love and understanding.
It is often given as a gift to express love and appreciation. Rose quartz is also known as the “Heart Stone” because it opens up the heart chakra and allows for giving and receiving love. It can also be used to attract love and relationships.
12) The Ring
A ring is perhaps the most common symbol of love and commitment. It can represent eternity, never-ending love, or simply be a fashion statement. A ring is usually worn on the left hand, specifically on the third finger. This finger was once thought to have a direct vein connected to the heart, which is why it became associated with love and marriage.
13) The Cupid
Cupid is perhaps the most well-known symbol of love. He is often depicted as a young boy with wings, carrying a bow and arrow. The arrow represents the power of love, while the bow symbolizes the difficulties in finding true love.
14) The Infinity Symbol
The infinity symbol ᛫ represents eternal love. It is a sign of endless love, making it the perfect symbol for a deep love couple.
The infinity symbol is also a reminder that love is never ending and goes on forever. This makes it the perfect tattoo for couples looking to get a matching tattoo representing their never-ending love for each other.
15) The Anchor
The anchor is one of the most common symbols of love. It represents security, stability, and being grounded. The anchor is often seen in tattoo form as a symbol of someone’s significant other.
16) The Dove
A white dove is often seen as a symbol of hope, peace, and new beginnings. It also represents purity and innocence. In many religions, a dove is seen as a holy creature that carries the spirit of the divine.
The dove is also a famous symbol in art and literature. In Greek mythology, Aphrodite (the goddess of love) was often depicted with a white dove by her side. The Holy Spirit is often represented as a white dove in the Christian tradition.
The white dove is also a famous symbol in weddings. A bride releasing doves at her wedding ceremony is said to be wishing for a peaceful and long-lasting marriage.
17) The Cross
One of the most common symbols of love is the cross. The cross is a symbol of Christianity and is often used to represent the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. The cross can also be seen as a symbol of the union of two people in love, as it means meeting two people at the points where their bodies intersect.
18) Padme Lotus
There are many symbols of love, and each one has a different meaning. One of the most common symbols is the lotus. The lotus flower is often used to represent love, beauty, and purity. It is also a symbol of new beginnings.
The lotus flower grows in muddy water yet can still produce a beautiful blossom. This symbolizes how love can grow and bloom even amid difficult circumstances. The lotus is also associated with spiritual awakening and enlightenment.
For Hindus, the lotus is a sacred symbol that represents the divine goddess Lakshmi. In Buddhism, the lotus flower symbolizes Buddha’s teaching of the Middle Way – which is the path to enlightenment that lies between extremes of self-indulgence and self-denial.
19) The Ankh
The Ankh is an ancient Egyptian symbol that represents life. It is often used as a symbol of love, as it is believed to be a powerful talisman that can bring good luck and fortune. The Ankh is also associated with the sun god Ra and is often used as a symbol of eternal life.
20) The Menat
The Menat was an ancient Egyptian symbol of love, femininity, and fertility. It was often worn as an amulet or necklace by women. The Menat consisted of a circular disk with a beaded rim and a counterpoise at the bottom. The disk was usually inscribed with the names of goddesses associated with love, beauty, and fertility. These goddesses include Isis, Hathor, Nephthys, and Bastet. The Menat was thought to promote sexual ecstasy and increase women’s attractiveness to men. It was also believed to protect against evil spirits and misfortune.
21) Harp
The harp has long been a symbol of love, both divine and earthly. In ancient Greece, it was often associated with the goddess Aphrodite, known as the goddess of love. The harp is also a popular motif in Celtic art and mythology, where it is often associated with the Irish god of love, Clannad. In Christian art, the harp is often used as a symbol of the heavenly choir and is sometimes depicted with an angel playing it.
The harp is a beautiful instrument that has been used for centuries to express love. Its soothing sound can bring comfort and peace to those who hear it. If you want to show your loved ones how much you care about them, consider giving them a gift that features this lovely symbol.
22) Chocolate
Chocolate is such a famous symbol of love because it is associated with happiness and pleasure. Eating chocolate releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Chocolate also contains phenylethylamine, a chemical that promotes feelings of attraction and love.
Another reason chocolate is often given as a symbol of love is that it takes time and effort to make. Unlike flowers or jewelry, which can be bought quickly and easily, chocolate requires care and attention. This makes it a more personal gift, which can show how much thought and effort you’ve put into showing your affection.
23) Diamond
Diamonds are most commonly associated with love and commitment. They are often given engagement rings to signify that the relationship is serious and that the couple plans to spend the rest of their lives together.
While they are often seen as symbols of romantic love, diamonds can also represent other forms of love, such as the bond between friends or family members. They can also be a symbol of self-love and appreciation.
A Word From Charismatic Persona
Though we often express love through common symbols like flowers, cards, or chocolate, nothing can replace the warmth and comfort of a hug. Human touch is essential for our physical and emotional well-being and is one of the most basic ways we show affection.
So next time you’re looking to show your loved ones how much you care, forget the material things and go with a hug instead.