History of the Compass
To understand why the compass is popular among jewelry enthusiasts, we must take a quick look at the history of the compass.
The first compasses were created in China, where they were used as a navigation instrument. Compasses were important for maritime navigation and were used by sailors and travelers. Over time, other types of compasses were created in medieval Europe and the Middle East, and their use spread.
Compass Necklace by Santa Muerte
The magnetic compass is the most well-known of all compass types and is renowned for its ability to serve a single function: always pointing north.
Even today, centuries after its first invention and with all our technological advancements, the compass remains a useful instrument and is constantly used by those in need of finding a direction.
Symbolism of the Compass
As mentioned earlier, the compass's ability to always point north is what makes it such a symbolic device. If you know how to use it, you can never truly get lost with a compass.
Due to these connotations, the compass is full of symbolism and meaning. Here are some elements that the compass symbolizes:
Guidance - For travelers, the compass provides a sense of security as they know they can rely on it to always guide them in the right direction, through rough seas and unknown roads. It is like the North Star, celebrated throughout history as a symbol of orientation.
Orientation - Having a compass meant knowing which direction you were facing, whether it was north, south, east, or west. The compass therefore meant you would always have orientation. Even today, many Muslims use a compass to find the direction of Mecca.
Travel - The word compass comes from the Latin com meaning together and passus meaning step or pace. In fact, compass means "walking together" or "traveling together." Not only is the compass used for travel, but by its very definition, it signifies traveling. This is one of the reasons why the compass is the favorite symbol of those who like to "take a step together."
Independence - As a device that tells you where to go and leads you there, using a compass signifies independence and the willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Wearing the compass symbol is a sign of independence and confidence that comes from knowing that, no matter what, you will always find your way.
Safety and Protection - The compass is often seen as a symbol of protection and, since ancient times, it has been a symbol of safety.
Luck, Motivation, and Inspiration - It is easy to understand why the compass symbolizes luck. It is an instrument that brings luck to a lost person, guiding them to where they need to go. It symbolizes motivation because a compass helps you move and shows you the way forward. Finally, the compass has always symbolized inspiration, as it points to the north. Throughout history, the north has symbolized progress and advancement (while the south symbolizes things going wrong).
If the compass is linked to certain religious groups, it remains a universal symbol with meaning for all.
Compass Jewelry
Considering all the aforementioned factors, it is easy to understand why the compass has become a highly appreciated symbol among jewelry enthusiasts. Here are some ideas on how to wear compass style.
Compass Pendant
There is something very classic about wearing the compass symbol on a pendant. The compass is a versatile symbol that lends itself to many styles. As you can see in the two images below, the pendant is elegant and modern while evoking nostalgia and possessing an antique charm.
Offer a compass jewel
As a versatile and meaningful symbol, compass jewelry is perfect for almost any occasion.