Dignified. Proud. Creative. Confident.
These are some of the traits of Leo. The sign for those born between July 23rd and August 22nd also has the good fortune of having a lion as its symbol, which has inspired jewelry designers to make magnificent creations.
Two lions wrestle for dominance in this bracelet by David Webb. Their lifelike depiction and diamond flecks for eyes make for a bold statement on the wrist. Courtesy of 1stdibs.com
The origin of the symbol of Leo is wrapped in myth and legend. It was supposedly inspired by the Nemean lion, a marauding beast that terrorized the populace of ancient Greece. It had a hide so thick that it could not be pierced by weapons, so Herakles (Hercules) killed it with his bare hands. The goddess Hera placed the fallen beast in the heavens.
If you took the Grand Tour through Europe in the 18th century and stopped in Rome, you might have seen this regal antique brooch. A lion commands center stage; around his neck is spelled “Roma Eterna.” Copyright: GIA
The lion is also an ancient and universal symbol. The Great Sphinx of Giza is a man’s head resting on a lion’s body. The Hindu goddess Durga rides a lion. Stylized sculptured lions are found throughout Asia. The British, Scottish, and Welsh coat of arms are emblazoned with lions. And in the United States, two lions front the New York Public Library.
Two lions size each other up in these gold cufflinks. The regal bearing of these creatures is captured in the design. Courtesy of 1stdibs.com
While the depiction of the lion may change over the centuries and across cultures, it often symbolizes virtues like courage, honor, and strength.
A whimsical depiction of Leo in a pair of earrings by Lydia Courteille stands in contrast to the fierce creatures that typically symbolize the zodiac sign, Leo. Photo courtesy of D’Orazio & Associates
Leo is an astrological sign asking to be rendered as jewelry. Talented designers have obliged, and we are lucky to have their lion’s share of interpretations.
Want to see zodiac jewelry for other signs? We’ve covered part of the heavens with blogs featuring unique designs for Gemini, Taurus and Aries.
