Introduction
It is easy to see why the compass has become well-loved for travel lovers and people with all sorts of interests and beliefs worldwide. Plus it looks amazing as a pendant on a necklace or a bracelet.
The options are endless regarding different unique designs and metals used.
The significance behind the compass is actually rather profound that is why compass jewellery and compass necklaces are so meaningful to those who wear them or give them as gifts.
The symbolism of the compass
The word compass itself has beautiful significance. The word comes from the Latin words com (together) & passus (pace or step) which when combined means ‘step together’ or ‘journey together’.
The compass is not only represented as the actual navigational instrument but is often portrayed as a symbol, known as the compass rose.
This image is used on maps and charts to display the orientation of the four cardinal directions (north, south, east and west). This is also the symbol that is used in jewellery, fashion and tattoos.
The History of the Compass
- The magnetic compass is the most used and well-known type of compass. Its use dates back to the 11th or 12th century in China. The compass was used as a navigation device out at sea.
- By the 13th century, the compass had spread to Western Europe and the Middle East, making exploration and navigation a lot easier if the sun, stars or landmarks were blocked by clouds or bad weather.
- However, over time explorers started using compasses as their primary tool of navigation as they became more reliable.
- The construction and look of magnetic compasses have changed a lot over the decades however the way the compass works has stayed the same with a magnetised needle that rotates to line up with the Earth’s magnetic field. The needle always points north.
- As engineers and scientists discovered more about the earth’s magnetism the compass needle was mounted and placed in the middle of a card that showed north, south, east and west.
- This is where we get the famous compass symbol that we see so often on jewellery, clothing and tattoos in modern society.
When to gift a compass Necklace
Here are some ideas for when to gift a loved one an Off The Map Compass necklace:
1. Gift a compass necklace to a loved one or a friend about to travel or move overseas to symbolise safety, protection and good luck on their journey.
2. A gift for graduation to signify finding one’s path in life moving in the right direction and finding independence.
3. A Valentine’s Day gift to symbolise that you will always be there for that person and that you would be lost without them.
4. As an anniversary or wedding gift to a partner, suggesting that they are the compass of your life.
5. As a birthday gift for someone who is connected to the spiritual meaning of the four directions such as the Lakota, yogic or Celtic traditions.
Motivation & inspiration for Compass Necklace
Compasses also represent motivation and inspiration. The compass can be a powerful symbol of motivation to a person who is feeling lost, either in their life or perhaps on their travels (especially if it is a very long trip).
Conclusion
Gift a compass necklace to a loved one or a friend about to travel or move overseas to symbolise safety, protection and good luck on their journey. A graduation gift signifies finding one’s path in life moving in the right direction and finding independence. As an anniversary or wedding gift to a partner, suggesting that they are the compass of your life.
The word compass itself has beautiful significance. The word comes from the Latin words com (together) & passus (pace or step) which when combined means ‘step together’ or ‘journey together’.
0 Comments