Overview on Different Types of Pendants
The type of jewellery we wear can not only make a highly personal statement about who we are but also intrinsically express how we feel. One accessory, however, that has stood the test of time over the decades is the pendant.
Pendants are extraordinary pieces of jewellery, and part of their beauty and allure lies in their versatility. For instance, you can wear a pendant that’s simple or ornate, you could wear one that’s classic or unorthodox, or you might wear one that is subtle or eye-catching – there are plenty of styles to choose from depending on how you feel or what you’re wearing.
No matter what the design, the right kind of pendant can immediately enhance your getup and overall look, display a certain kind of emotion, such as passion, or simply showcase sentimental value.
Even though going back many centuries, pendants today are the centre of focus in both fashion and culture, fortifying their status as an element of personal expression. What started in ancient civilisations as a trend – from the pendants that swung around proudly from the long necks of the pharaohs to those which queens used to adore themselves with – today symbolises something incredibly unique to its owner.
In this comprehensive article, we’re going to cover everything from what pendants are and their history, to the different types of pendants and what style to wear for specific occasions. Fix yourself a cup or grab your favourite snack. Things are about to get very, very interesting!
What a pendant is and why it’s a timeless jewel
A pendant is another name for a piece of jewellery or adornment suspended from a necklace or chain. The word “pendant” is derived from the Latin word pendere and the Old French word pendr – both of them, unsurprisingly, mean “to hang” something. So, ‘pendant’ perfectly describes a piece of jewellery which hangs or swings back and forth gracefully and, sometimes, almost hypnotically with every movement!
The underlying beauty of pendants goes well beyond its rather basic physical traits. Its intrinsic value lies in its practically unlimited design potential. So, this means that the shape a pendant may take can be as varied and unique as the people who love wearing them. For example, a pendant could be a silver cross symbolizing your devotion to your faith, it could be a gold or ruby heart expressing love, or a diamond-studded locket concealing a cherished photo.
Historically speaking, pendants have played quite a prominent role. Ancient civilisations, for instance, would use them as both ornaments as well as talismans and amulets. They believed that pendants warded off evil spirits or anything which spelt ‘doom and gloom’, brought good luck, and even relayed power and status to the casual observer.
As we know by now, pendants have been around for hundreds to thousands of years – in museums and history books, you’ll come across ancient artwork depicting the Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians proudly wearing them as a symbol of status, power, wealth, and dominance. Did you know that during the caveman era, people used to fasten shells and stones around the neck using cords to form pendants?
Reliquaries used to hold sacred relics were worn on cords around the neck or as a form of devotion jewellery during the Middle Ages. Pendants did, however, gradually fade away in popularity by the 17th century although they regained it as the 19th century approached.
In the modern world, pendants continue to be a highly sought after form of personal adornment, a piece to convey your individual style, personality, beliefs, and much more.
Whether you’re drawn to the charm and allure pendants hold as personalised pieces, the mystical appeal symbolic pendants exude, or the timeless elegance of more modern gemstones, the world of pendants is a fascinating one to discover, each type telling a unique story, as we’re soon about to find out.
What are the different type of pendants?
Pendants come in unique designs, styles, and materials, with each one having a distinct meaning. They offer a unique way to express your own individuality so the type of pendant you wear can give others insights into how you feel or what type of person you are:
Personalised Pendants
Personalised pendants are often worn by people who love expressing their individuality in a unique way. These can include name pendants which feature your name (or the name of a loved one), providing a uniquely beautiful statement of identity.
Monogram pendants showcase your initials, offering an elegant and subtle way to wear personalised pieces of jewellery.
Birthstone pendants contain a natural stone which matches your birth month, adding not only a pop of colour but also a generous personal touch.
Medallions
Medallions or lockets are a special kind of pendant, offering lots of charm as they are worn to hide secrets close to one’s heart. They are a lovely piece of jewellery which combine both timeless beauty and sentimentality.
Photo lockets, for example, let you keep photos of your loves ones close to your bosom, quite literally, that is! Wearing hidden photos in this way make these medallions or lockets deeply personal and meaningful.
A medallion pendant may also be a secret message locket, containing tiny scrolls with messages. These actually make for a very thoughtful or romantic gift, concealing words of love, for instance, or wise words of encouragement.
Amulets
Amulets are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, sold typically in gold or silver although they might also be available in plated gold or silver. Metal amulets can be adored with everything from gemstones and natural diamonds to zirconia and lab-created diamonds or gemstones.
Amulets are a type of pendant which are usually worn as a form of protection against different kinds of threats, harm, or evil. Most faiths, in fact, encourage wearing an amulet which are believed to have spiritual powers to protect one from harmful, evil, or dangerous circumstances. A Saint Christopher, for instance, is said to protect those who are travelling, and a favourite of soldiers across different armies to protect against natural disasters like floods and storms while in the thick of the battle.
Talisman
A talisman closely resembles an amulet and is thought to be a close cousin to the latter. However, unlike a religious amulet, a talisman is worn as a token which contains magical elements or charms. A pendant featuring a talisman typically contains a form of metal featuring a specific symbol, emblem, or design which can include a sequence of numbers or lettering.
Also, unlike an amulet, a talisman is made deliberately to act as a magical charm, allegedly transferring or bestowing ‘magical’ powers to the wearer according to what the talisman carries.
The talisman comes in different types of configurations, each one representing specific mythologies, cultures, or ancient designs. These can be available, for example, in the form of a rune, sigils, a Celtic warrior shield, and more.
Symbolic pendants
Symbolic pendants are typically worn by those who seek pendants more than just for their aesthetic appeal or physical characteristics. Some wear them to represent their inner beliefs, for example, while others to represent their connections or aspirations.
Zodiac pendants are a kind of symbolic pendant which highlight your astrological sign, offering you a way to connect you to the cosmos. They also offer a crafty way to express your personality and identity.
You might have heard of heart-shaped pendants – a type of symbolic pendant worn as a universal symbol of love and affection. These not only have timeless appeal but are worn commonly to express everything from romantic love and family love to self-love.
Religious pendants are often worn to allow you a way to cherish and hold your faith closer to your heart – these may include crescent moons, Om symbols, or crosses and Stars of David.
Metal pendants
Metal pendants come in a broad variety and the type of metal you choose can truly set the tone for the overall look you want to achieve. Metal pendants truly have a charm of their own, from the modernity of platinum to the allure of gold.
Platinum pendants, for instance, offer a certain kind of durability and luster which make them a very luxurious choice when it comes to metal pendants. Its tarnish resistance means that you, along with others, will be drawn to its gorgeous shine for many years to come.
Silver pendants are known for their cool and elegant appeal, so it’s no wonder they are typically reserved for minimalist and contemporary designs. Silver pendants tend to show off a subtle character yet they make for a very elegant addition to just about any everyday outfit.
Gold pendants offer a classic and timeless appeal that almost never goes out of style, whether it’s rose gold, white gold, or a pure yellow form or even mixed form. They are a highly versatile choice of metal pendant as they can be carved into so many different designs, each with a distinct personality of their own.
Gemstone pendants
Precious stones and jewellery have gone hand in hand for centuries, being inseparable companions for as long as one can remember. These dazzling natural wonders offer their sparkle and beauty to pendants, resulting in some truly magnificent pieces.
Emerald pendants embody the vibrant colours of nature, celebrating both life and renewal. Their stunning burst of colour, in fact, can bring nearly any kind of outfit to life.
Sapphire pendants are a symbol of royalty and wisdom, valued highly for their rich blue tone. They can add the perfect touch of class and sophistication to any ensemble.
Ruby pendants present love and passion, and are indeed a bold choice for those looking to make an equally bold statement. The deep red tone of these gemstones loudly broadcast an aura of power and confidence with just the right touch of sophistication.
Diamond pendants offer unmatched brilliance and elegance, ranging from a basic solitaire to intricate designs encrusted with sparkling stones in your chosen carat.
Infinity pendants
Although not as common as the other types of pendants, infinity pendants are worn to represent eternity. These pendants are often gifted as a token of love, signifying a love that never dies or is never-ending. This is why you’ll typically see infinity pendants containing a diamond or other precious gem, not only giving the pendant a much greater aesthetic appeal but also marking a love that is meant to last an eternity.
Functional pendants
Functional pendants may serve as invaluable ‘mini tools’ reserved for emergencies, although they can also act as fantastic conversation pieces which can be worn as novelty items. Designs may include everything from a miniature folding pocket knife, monocle, whistle, pill box and yarn cutter to a vial, compass, pair of scissors, and magnifying glass.
Even a prayer box may serve as a functional pendant, allowing you to open the latch, place your prayer inside, and close it securely. These often make for interesting and thoughtful gifts as small books with a few gold or silver pages containing an engraved poem or prayer can be placed inside to give added reassurance to the wearer.
Fashion pendants
As the name suggests, fashion pendants are worn purely for their aesthetic beauty. These type of pendants do not usually comprise valuable gemstones or precious metals but instead feature costume jewellery. Their affordability make them great for coordinating with multiple outfits, as they are a highly versatile kind of pendant which can be used with a wide variety of necklaces in order to achieve different looks.
For instance, you might wear your fashion pendant with a gold chain or, perhaps, a leather cord to switch up your look a little. You can even vary the size and length of your necklaces to match different outfits.
Cameo pendants
A cameo pendant offers a very exquisite profile in an accentuated relief carving. Cameo pendants or simply cameos are carved out of agate, mother-of-pearl, or shell, although some contemporary ones are carved out of resin.
Cameo pendants are often regarded as prized pieces of jewellery as their attention to detail really stands out. Modern cameo pendants tend to break away from the usual silhouettes and reflect more contemporary scenes.
Cameo pendants can feature angels, children, flowers, or other scenes involving nature or people. If you’re after a classic and stylish looking pendant, this might be the one for you. It can complement any formal suit or dress with ease and happens to be a popular choice for attending formal gatherings, such as weddings.
Different pendant styles: Which one is right for me?
Gemstone pendants
These are a fantastic way to add some personality and colour to your existing collection of jewellery. Gemstone pendants can be found in many gemstones, such as sapphire, emerald, or amethyst, and set in precious metals like yellow, white, or rose gold. Match your gemstone pendant with a simple and traditional outfit, and you’re all set.
Gold pendants
Gold pendants are timeless and elegant pieces of jewellery which can really improve your overall look in a traditional but also sophisticated way. You might find many unique styles and patterns of gold pendants, all available in rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold to match your own unique style and jewellery preference.
Emerald pendants
Emerald pendants featuring beautiful emeralds as the main gemstone, bringing incredible beauty and vibrant life to your outfit. This is why people choose emerald pendants as it adds a lot of vibrant yet natural beauty to their look. Go with an emerald pendant on those special occasions or even for everyday life simply to add a delicate splash of colour to your outfit.
Cross pendants
Cross pendants have been a popular choice among those who want to express their dedication to the Christian faith. These pendants are available in unique designs, ranging from simple and ornate to intricate. Not only do cross pendants offer a tangible way to represent your faith but also act as treasured keepsakes which may be passed on from generation to generation.
Religious pendants
Religious pendants, including those shaped in a cross, diamond Om or other faith symbols, are a meaningful way to express personal beliefs around your own faith. These type of pendants are available in multiple designs and materials, letting you choose a piece that pays homage to your personal spiritual journey. However, religious pendants may also be worn as a statement piece or layer with other types of necklaces in order to achieve a more intricate and unique look.
Monogram pendants
Monogram pendants have long been a personalised way to add just the right touch of elegance to your existing jewellery, where you have the option of featuring either your initials or a loved one’s, including a special date. Whether your monogram pendant is engraved in gold, studded with diamonds, or embellished with precious stones, they are excellent for adding elegance to your jewellery collection as well as your outfit, and also make for timeless as well as sentimental keepsakes.
Heart pendants
Heart pendants are often seen as timeless symbols of love, care, and affection. They are available in various materials, including silver, gold, and gemstones. Wearing a heart pendant means you are expressing your love for a certain someone special or even as a reminder of self-love. Go ahead and pair your heart pendant with a minimalist chain to achieve a classic look or mix it with other pendants for a more wide-ranging style.
Birthstone pendants
Birthstone pendants are a great way to celebrate your birth month with a unique jewellery piece. Since each month has a designated gemstone, birthstone pendants are just as great a treat for yourself as they are thoughtful gifts. Style your birthstone pendant with a delicate or dainty-looking chain for everyday wear or layer it with other necklaces if you’re after a bold look that stands out with little effort.
When it comes to choosing the right pendant style, keep these additional tips in mind:
- Prioritising the quality of craftsmanship and materials is important when choosing a pendant. So, make sure that the stones are set correctly and that the pendant itself is made from high-quality materials like gold, silver, or platinum.
- Choose a style that speaks to you, adds to your outfit or, for example, helps you achieve a personal touch, such as engraving initials in birthstone pendants or solitaire pendants for a polished and pretty aesthetic.
- Think about your necklace chain’s length and the pendant’s size. Longer chains, for instance, are ideal for layering and adding some of that bohemian flair to your look while shorter chains work very well to show off a single pendant and make a statement. Ultimately, you’d want to choose a pendant that goes well with your overall frame and body shape, so that you can achieve a balanced yet flattering look.
- Understanding the symbolism behind each pendant is an important consideration. Do you want to wear a heart pendant to express you love and affection? A religious one to represent your faith or a birthstone to reflect the significance of your birth month? Ideally, you’d want to choose a pendant which boasts personal meaning and stays true to your beliefs and values.
Closing thoughts
Pendants can be used to great effect to show self-expression, cultural values, religious values, faith, and much more. They can be worn on special occasions or events, or even as an everyday adornment. With choices a plenty, you can always find a type of pendant which not only enhances your look but also symbolises some of your own beliefs and values.
Our collection of pendants at Biker Ring Shop feature many different styles to choose from, with each one having a unique personality of its own. Whether you want to go out to meet some friends, pop in at an event or occasion, or simply want something to complement your getup with, our unique range of pendants can cover all your needs.