The Turtle Dove: A Symbol of Enduring Love, Hope & Freedom
The turtle dove, with its soft silvery feathers and gentle nature, has long been a symbol of enduring love and peace. From ancient times to today, the dove has held a special place in the hearts and minds of people around the world which is why I was inspired to create my Two Turtle Doves Collection.
Symbolism of the dove has evolved over the centuries as people continue to explore the different meanings associated with the dove. In contemporary art, the dove is often used as a symbol of freedom and resistance. It has become an emblem of liberation movements symbolising the need for social change. Artists create powerful and thought-provoking work featuring doves to raise awareness about issues such as injustice, inequality, and movements towards liberation.
Their monogamous nature and tender displays of affection have throughout history made these beautiful birds synonymous with steadfast love. In many cultures, their gentle cooing is considered a soothing balm for the soul, representing hope, and deep spiritual connection.
From Shakespearean sonnets to ancient mythology, turtle doves have graced so many of our stories, adding depth and symbolism to tales of love and hope. Their enduring presence in art reflects our deep-seated desire for freedom, hope and the enduring power of love.
Flyer for Falastin by Artist Rachel Brown
Turtle Dove Jewellery: Embodying Love and Hope
Love's Eternal Bond: Just as two turtle doves mate for life, their image evokes a sense of profound connection and unwavering commitment. Their intertwined forms in flight or nestled together speak of a love that endures, a love that finds solace in companionship.
Hope & Freedom: The dove has been a symbol of peace throughout history, representing a steadfast hope for an end to oppression and injustice. The dove cultivates hope that even in the darkest of times, there is power in the potential for change. Today, the dove continues to be a powerful symbol inspiring social movements globally.
The History of Turtle Dove Symbolism
Throughout history, the turtle dove has been celebrated for its connection to love and partnership in various forms of art and cultural traditions.
In Renaissance paintings, these delicate birds were often depicted as companions of Venus, the goddess of love, symbolising the deep emotional bond between lovers.
In mediaeval and Renaissance art, turtle doves were commonly used to depict marital love and fidelity, their gentle nature mirroring the devotion and commitment shared between partners.
In some cultures, the act of releasing a pair of turtle doves is believed to bring luck and blessings to a couple's love and marriage, symbolising the hope for a lifetime of happiness and unity.
The tradition of giving "two turtle doves" as a gift on the second day of Christmas, as sung in the classic carol "The Twelve Days of Christmas," is one of the most famous of the bird's associations with love and commitment.
The turtle dove's monogamous mating habits, gentle cooing, and enduring presence in various stories, songs and paintings have solidified their status as a timeless emblem of love's enduring power and beauty.
Across different cultures and throughout history, the turtle dove continues to be a symbol of the deep connection and lasting bond shared between two people in love.
Why Do We Love To Wear Dove-Inspired Jewellery?
Turtle dove jewellery holds an enduring appeal because it captures the essence of lasting love, freedom, and hope. These gentle birds, known for their lifelong partnerships, have long symbolised these cherished values.
Wearing turtle dove jewellery is a beautiful way to keep these sentiments close, a quiet reminder of the strength of love, the importance of cultivating hope, and the beauty of lifelong commitment.
The turtle dove's delicate form also translates so exquisitely into jewellery, making these pieces not only meaningful - but also so delicately beautiful. .
Bird Inspired Jewellery at Alice Stewart Jewellery
At Alice Stewart Jewellery, my passion is creating handcrafted, heirloom jewellery that allows nature lovers to carry a piece of the wild with them, a reminder of the serenity and wonder found in the natural world
The timelessly graceful turtle dove, and the nation’s favourite - the charming robin, can both be found in the Two Turtle Doves collection; capturing the grace and beauty of Britain's native birds.
The gentle charm and character of Britain's iconic birds is echoed through pieces such as doves nestled on a delicately textured hoop, a robin quietly resting on a miniature twig, and intricately carved bird earrings.
Whether you seek a reminder of enduring love, a talisman of freedom and hope, or simply a connection to the natural world, our turtle dove jewellery carries the whispers of the wild, inviting you to embrace the beauty and serenity of our feathered friends.
Explore my bird-inspired collection and discover jewellery that speaks to your soul. Let these delicate symbols serve as a reminder of the enduring power of love, the steadfast strength of hope for freedom, and the profound connection we share with our natural world.
