All over the world, the dragonfly symbolizes change and the change in perspective of self-realization. Dragonflies symbolize the kind of change that has its source in mental and emotional maturity and the understanding of the deeper meaning of life.
Traditionally, dragonflies have long had an association with water. This also gives rise to quite a bit of meaning in this fantastic insect. A dragonfly’s scurrying flight across water represents the act of going above and beyond what’s on the surface. It represents looking into the deeper implications and aspects of life.
Oddly enough, much of Europe has historically viewed dragonflies as slightly sinister. The Norwegian name for dragonflies translates as ‘eye-poker’, and in Portugal, they are sometimes referred to as ‘eye-snatchers’. Native Americans viewed the dragonfly as representative of swiftness and activity, and dragonflies are a common motif in many Aboriginal cultures. Japanese culture also held the dragonfly as a symbol of courage, strength, and happiness, and draws upon the dragonfly symbol quite often in their art and literature. If this wasn’t enough proof that the Japanese culture loves dragonflies, consider this; there are traditional names for almost all of the 200 species of dragonflies found on the island of Japan.
Dragonfly designs are very common in Art Nouveau, especially in jewellery designs. They are often used to decorate fabrics and home furnishings.
You’ll discover that dragonfly charms will quickly find a place in your designs as accents on bracelets, earrings, and on necklaces. Our exclusive dragonfly charm, pictured below, is available in gold vermeille & sterling silver, is elegant, mature and looks quite stunning dangling below a pearl cluster as an earring set.
Try mixing them with Swarovski crystals as in this Design Idea, or pastel coloured pearls for an elegant statement. Dragonfly charms also look great paired with other charms on charm bracelets, or simply hung on an earring hook and worn as-is.
Try adding some dragonfly charms to your next design, you’ll be pleasantly surprised how well they enhance your work!
