The beauty of the ocean has been an inspiration for every form of art for thousands of years. Painting, poetry, music, and many others draw heavily from its symbolism, treating the ocean as their muse – the boundless waters are not only a source of adventures but also provide survival and sustenance for people. It is natural that the art we create reflects the origin of so many of our stories and explorations. With this in mind, it is no surprise that jewelry companies around the world have been creating and selling ocean-themed jewelry for years.

What is ocean-inspired jewelry?

As the name suggests, ocean-inspired jewelry is a type of jewelry whose style relates to the open sea, and its main idea is to reflect the characteristics of the ocean. From the depths of the waters and waves, shells and sea creatures, to nautical elements such as compasses and anchors – in collections inspired by the ocean, everyone can find something for themselves, and the soothing blue tones found in aquamarine, blue diamonds, lapis lazuli, turquoise, or larimar will give your jewelry lightness, perfectly matching summer outfits. Who wouldn’t appreciate the deep, blue shades and the gently shimmering silver and gold on tanned skin?

Jewelry inspired by sea creatures

Jellyfish, dolphins, turtles, shells, corals, clownfish, starfish, seahorses, stingrays, fish, and crabs swam for a long time in a creative landscape, inspiring jewelers to design brooches, earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and rings.In the 1920s, marine creatures were a favorite design motif for several of the most famous jewelry brands, including the house of Bovin and Tiffany & Co – Tiffany’s Shell and Starfish clips, the stunning fish bracelet with scale motifs decorated with sapphires, spinels, and diamonds are still a wonderful treat for the eyes.

Pearls, pearls, pearls

Pearls are gems incredibly connected to the ocean – after all, they are its creation! Unlike any other gemstones, pearls do not form deep in the earth as a result of long-term high-pressure and temperature processes; pearls are born in the salty and fresh waters of the oceans inside the shells of marine creatures – clams and oysters. These spherical, marine treasures straight from the depths of the oceans have existed as long as marine creatures have existed, and the earliest known records of pearls date back to 2206 B.C.!

Freshwater varieties of this gem occur in mussels and can have unpredictable shapes, while saltwater pearls can be found in oysters and have a magnificent white luster in a classic round shape. While synthetic pearls are not hard to obtain, natural pearls with perfect proportions and color are a true rarity.

Jewelry inspired by sailing elements

Anchor

An essential addition to the jewelry of any ocean lover is some form of anchor. Anchors keep boats from drifting from their location, no matter how huge the waves are or how strong the tide may be. They reflect a sense of calm, constancy, and stability. The anchor design is minimalist and unobtrusive. An anchor is perfect for a delicate chain or subtle accents on a ring.Anchors can signify the importance of waiting out a storm, waiting for life to settle, and for better days to come, just like waiting for better weather to set sail at sea. They also represent perseverance in seeking adventures and venturing into new sights and places, while staying true to your values by remaining grounded.

Before a loved one embarks on a long journey or vacation, jewelry containing an anchor can remind them of their roots and that you will not abandon them until they return.

Compass

The compass has been used as a practical navigation tool for thousands of years – it always points north, allowing the lost to find their way home or to the next destination. The word ‘compass’ itself has a beautiful meaning. The word comes from the Latin words com (together) and passus (pace or step), which together mean ‘a common step’ or ‘a shared journey.’

Over the years, as compasses have been integrated into many societies and cultures, they have also acquired many symbolic and spiritual meanings – the compass symbolizes the ability to find the way home or to a destination. It symbolizes that you will never get lost.

The meaning of the compass is actually quite profound, which is why jewelry and pendants with a compass are so significant to those who wear them or give them as gifts.

Jewelry with ocean beads

Jewelry with gemstones in particular combines power and healing properties. Not only does it look stunning, but it can also boost confidence – sea jewels can enhance mental abilities, attract wealth, add energy, increase intuition, and more.

13 gems found in the ocean

The depths of the ocean are a canvas for the exceptional craft of nature, home to many fascinating crystals. These dazzling gems, each unique in its formation and energy, whisper tales of the mystery and splendor of the ocean. If you are interested in oceanic gems, get inspired by these varieties:

Aquamarine

Larimar

Pearl

Abalone Shell

Coral

Sea Salt Crystals

Blue Calcite

Ocean Jasper

Sea Glass

Lepidolite

Amazonite

Serpentine

Peridotite

Custom Jewelry at the 79Diamonds workshop

Were you inspired by any of the marine themes? Would you like to create unique jewelry with oceanic stones? Contact the designer of our jewelry workshop 79 Diamonds, and together you will design a one-of-a-kind keepsake for yourself or your loved ones!