History of the compass

To understand why the compass is popular among jewelry lovers, we need to take a quick look at the history of the compass.

The first compasses were created in China, where they were used as a navigational instrument. Compasses were important to 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 best known of all types of compasses and is renowned for its ability to perform one function: always pointing north.

Even today, centuries after its first invention and with all our advances in technology, the compass remains a useful instrument and is constantly used by those who need to find direction.

Compass Symbolism

As we mentioned above, 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 really get lost if you have a compass.

Due to these connotations, the compass is full of symbolism and meaning. Here are some things that the compass symbolizes:


guidance - For travelers, the compass provides a sense of security because they know they can count on it to always point them in the right direction, through rough seas and unknown roads. She is like the North Star, celebrated throughout history as a symbol of orientation.


Orientation - Having a compass meant knowing which direction one was facing, whether it was north, south, east or west. The compass therefore meant that you would always have an orientation. Even today, many Muslims use a compass to find the direction of Mecca.


Travel - The word compass comes from the Latin com which means together and passus which means step or rhythm. In fact, compass means "to walk together" or "to travel together". Not only is the compass used for travel, but by its very definition it means to travel. This is one of the reasons why the compass is the favorite symbol of those who like to "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.

Security and Protection - The compass is often considered a symbol of protection, and since ancient times it has been a symbol of security.


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, leading them where they need to go. It symbolizes motivation as a compass helps you move and shows you the way to go. Finally, the compass has always symbolized inspiration, as it indicates the direction of north. Throughout history, north has symbolized progress and advancement (while south symbolizes things going wrong).
Although the compass is linked to certain religious groups, it remains a universal symbol with meaning for everyone.

Compass Jewelry

Considering all the above factors, it is easy to see why the compass has become such a popular symbol among lovers ofjewelry. Here are some ideas on how to wear the compass style.

compass pendant

 There is something very classic about wearing the compass symbol on apendant. The compass is a versatile symbol that lends itself to many styles. As you can see from the two images below, the pendant is sleek and modern while evoking nostalgia and has an antique charm.

To offer a jewel-compass

As a versatile and meaningful symbol, compass jewelry is perfect for almost any occasion.