Seaside Treasures – The Meaning Behind Ocean Inspired Jewellery
Located on the beautiful shores of Hayling Island, our shop is just a stone’s throw from the sea - and it’s no surprise that our selection of ocean-inspired jewellery reflects the beauty and spirit of our surroundings. Whether it’s a shell pendant, pearl earrings, or the beautiful enamels of Nicole Barr jewellery, each piece brings a little bit of the ocean’s magic to everyday life. In this blog, we’ll be diving into some of the stories and symbolism behind the jewellery we love, and why these oceanic touches continue to inspire people near and far.
Ocean-inspired jewellery isn’t just about style - it’s a connection to something ancient, vast, and deeply symbolic. The sea has always been a source of mystery, strength, and renewal. Wearing jewellery that draws inspiration from the ocean often represents a love for nature, a free spirit, or a reminder of calm and clarity in the midst of life’s storms.
From wave motifs and seashell charms to deep blue stones like aquamarine and lapis lazuli, each oceanic element tells a unique story. But perhaps no piece holds as much timeless symbolism as the pearl. Pearls are unlike any other gemstone - they’re born not from the earth, but from the sea. Formed within the soft tissue of molluscs, they represent nature’s ability to create beauty from irritation and resilience. This transformative process gives pearls their deep, almost spiritual symbolism.
Throughout history, pearls have stood for purity, wisdom, and serenity. In many cultures, they’re seen as a connection to the moon and tides, symbolizing feminine energy and emotional balance. Wearing pearls is often associated with inner peace, self-acceptance, and quiet strength.
Coral is often seen as the lifeblood of the sea. Its vivid hues and branching forms symbolize vitality, energy, and the interconnectedness of life. In many cultures, coral has been used as a talisman for protection, warding off negativity and promoting emotional healing. When worn as jewellery, coral can be a reminder to stay grounded, connected, and alive with purpose - just like the reefs where the coral can be found. Our Beach Art Glass sand and sea jewellery has beautiful intricate beachy detail and is finished with a touch of coral.
It is said that Shells are like ocean diaries—each one shaped by time, tide, and experience. They represent personal journeys, growth, and the idea of carrying your home (and truth) within you. Used in jewellery, shells often symbolize intuition and emotional insight, echoing the ocean's deep, knowing wisdom. From delicate cowries to spiral conchs, shell designs connect us to our inner voice and the ever-changing tides of life.
In store we have a selection of Paua shell jewellery. Paua shell is known as the opal of the sea. Found along the coast of New Zealand no two pieces are ever the same. In Māori culture Paua holds deep spiritual meaning and is considered a treasured gift from the sea. Paua represents prosperity, good fortune and protection, especially during life’s transitions or journey.
Wave-inspired jewellery captures the rhythm and soul of the ocean. With their endless rise and fall, waves symbolize life’s constant motion—its highs, lows, and the peaceful in-between. Wearing a wave motif is like wearing a quiet reminder that everything in life comes in cycles, and that even when waters feel rough, calm will come again. Waves are often seen as a symbol of inner strength and emotional flow. Wave jewellery also reminds us to let go, release control and trust the journey.
Our range of Beach Art Glass jewellery includes, pendants, bracelets and earrings made by hand in the UK by glass artist Julie Fountain. No two pieces are exactly the same, each is like a mini piece of art you can wear. Her designs replicate everything that is loved about the sea, from the cooling sea spray to the sand between your toes.
While pearls, shells, and sea glass bring the serene beauty of the ocean to life through their natural elegance, the marine world offers even more inspiration beneath the waves. From the graceful movement of sea creatures to their intricate shapes and symbolism, designers often look to the ocean's living treasures to craft jewellery that tells a story of life, mystery, and wonder.
Octopuses, starfish, seahorses, and even jellyfish have long captured the imagination of jewellery designers. Their unique forms lend themselves to everything from delicate pendants to bold statement rings, often rendered in shimmering metals, enamel, or gemstones to mimic the vivid colours and textures of the sea. These creatures are not just beautiful—they’re also symbolic, often representing resilience, transformation, and mystery.
The starfish is a powerful emblem of regeneration and resilience. With the ability to regrow lost limbs, it serves as a symbol of healing, transformation, and infinite possibility. In jewellery, starfish designs are a gentle reminder that we too can heal, adapt, and continue to shine, even after the storms.
Seahorses are gentle, slow-moving creatures often seen as symbols of calmness, patience, and contentment. They float through the ocean with grace, unhurried and deliberate. Because male seahorses carry the young, they also represent nurturing and unique strength.
The sea turtle is a powerful symbol of endurance, stability, and wisdom through experience. These ancient navigators travel thousands of miles but always return home, making them a beautiful metaphor for finding your way, even across life's vast oceans.
Whether it's a shimmering pearl that carries the mystery of the deep, or a delicate shell that whispers of summer days by the shore, ocean-inspired jewellery holds a special kind of magic. If you’re ever nearby, pop into our little shop by the sea - we’d love to show you our latest seaside treasures in person.
Can’t make it to the coast? No problem! Our website is always open, or you can always catch a glimpse of what we are up to over on our Facebook page or Instagram.
