Fleur-de-Lis Jewelry

Fleur-de-Lis jewelry has certainly come out in full force lately. I was at a wonderfully large and elaborate trade show in New York City this past weekend, and almost every single jewelry booth had at least one piece that in watches way featured the fleur-de-lis.

I am ashamed to admit this, but it wasn't until recently that I did the necessary research to discover the actual meaning behind the fleur-de-lis, and I was astounded at my findings...
Apparently the literal meaning of the fleur-de-lis (or fleur-de-lys) is "flower of lily", which explains why its shape is largely reminiscent of either an iris or a lily. Although today, the fleur-de-lis is generally used simply because it "looks pretty," it also can be an indication of political, dynastic, artistic, emblematic or symbolic beliefs.

Here is a list of the different meanings behind the fleur-de-lis:

• The fleur-de-lis once appeared on European coats of arms and flags.
• Originally it was a symbol that was equated with the French monarchy, and is now considered an "enduring symbol of France."
• The rule of King Juan Carlos I, an old member of the original French dynasty, is marked by this symbol.
• The fleur-de-lis is associated with old French colonies, such as Quebec and Louisiana.
• It is an emblem of the Swiss Municipality of Schlieren, Zrich.

• It represents the Holy Trinity and the Virgin Mary.
• It is considered an iconographic attribute of the archangel Gabriel, notably in representations of The Annunciation.
• Also, due to a tradition started by Flavio Gioja, the symbol is often used on a compass rose to mark North.

In modern times, this symbol is an omnipresent force! Just the other day I was watching the third Shrek (don't judge me) and the character Prince Charming was wearing an outfit adorned with this French insignia. You can find it used in wallpaper, in architecture, in company logos, and, of course, jewelry.

Overall, I believe the greatest part about the fleur-de-lis is how such an old symbol has, over the years, increased in popularity and become stylized to fit the needs of nearly every culture in some way, shape, or form.

Alexandra is the Head of Marketing and Sales for Mademoiselle Jewelry - a company that was founded on the principal that jewelry is art. Mademoiselle Jewelry specializes in unique jewelry, sterling silver jewelry, and designer jewelry. Each piece of jewelry is hand selected for quality, uniqueness, and creativity. Mademoiselle Jewelry also watches silver jewelry lines specifically designed for men and children.