The dragon is a symbol of power, strength, and wisdom. Today it is one of the most popular and loved mythical creatures. He is depicted as a huge fire-breathing snake-like creature with large claws, horns, and a long beard. The Dragon signifies mystical and supernatural powers. The history of the Dragons can be traced back to the tales and myths of various peoples of Asia and Western Europe. In the West, he was associated with evil and dark forces, while in the East he had a connection with divine forces and was considered to be a protector and savior.
The Meaning of the Dragon in Eastern Culture
The image of the Dragon came to us from Asia, more precisely, from China and Japan.
In the Chinese culture, the Dragon is treated as a deity who can control the rain, lightning, and four elements of nature. The capabilities of this mythical creature are so enormous that he is even able to even reincarnate. He personifies the power, infinite wisdom, and harmony of the inner world.
In Japan, the Dragon meant luck, wisdom, care, and strength. According to the legends, the sacred carp Koi (a symbol of courage and luck) had the ability to turn into a Dragon. Many emperors depicted the symbol of the Dragon on clothes as a sign of majesty.
The Symbolism of the Dragon in Western Cultures
Unlike a positive image of the Dragon in the East, he was an ominous creature in the West. He was depicted as a lizard, with huge wings, tail, and thick skin. The legends say that he burned villages down, attacked people and dragged them into his den. With the advent of Christianity, the European image of the Dragon has gained the face of the devil. In the Bible, he is depicted as a furious evil.
For Celts, the Dragon personified rigidity and wisdom of life. He served the god of the earth and was a symbol of sovereign power.
The Slavic dragon is called Zmei (Serpent) Gorynych. He was a vile and dangerous creature. According to the legends, only a brave and courageous man was able to defeat him.
In Greek and Roman civilization, the Dragon symbolized terror. Roman soldiers decorated their armor with images of a dragon in order to intimidate their opponents.
Variations of Dragon Accessories
The Dragon can be depicted on pendants, wallets, necklaces, locket necklaces, bracelets, dragon rings, and other accessories. Depending on the meaning, there is a large number of the Dragon images depicted on these jewelry items:
- A sleeping dragon is a symbol of spiritual harmony;
- A dragon with multi-colored scales (often white, black, red, and blue) indicates a connection with the elements of nature;
- A dragon with a tiger is a variation of the Yin-Yang symbol.
- A flying dragon indicates friendly intentions;
- A horned dragon means decisiveness;
- A dragon with spread wings symbolizes faith and fortitude;
- A dragon crawling on the ground indicates the connection between the earth and the heavenly elements;
- A dragon with exposed teeth means aggression and danger;
- A dragon with golden scales indicates wisdom and desire for knowledge;
- A dragon with coins denotes wealth and prosperity;
- Celtic-style dragon means power, strength, and spirituality;
- Two Dragons that compete with each other denote a duel between Yin and Yang;
- Dragons that chase each other’s tails are a symbol of the creative action of Yin-Yang.
Summing up, such a noble creature as the Dragon is able to spice your image up, therefore, you should approach the choice of accessories with great responsibility. A perfect jewelry should not only be easy on the eye but also suit your inner world.