Popular Symbols Used When Creating Memorial Art

The symbols we choose to integrate into our loved one's urns, cremation jewelry, glass art, or any keepsake, reflect our personal values of the deceased and also the broader cultural context from which they emerge.

They act as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing us to remember and celebrate the lives of those we have lost. The meanings of memorial symbols can range from straightforward representations to more intricate interpretations.

Here are a list of the most popular symbols we see in memorials made by our artists.

Probably the most popular universal symbol that really need no explanation. The heart expresses the deep affection and bond that remains even after a loved one’s passing.

Angel figures in memorials symbolize a connection to the divine, representing strength, faith, protection, and beauty. These celestial beings are seen as guardians who watch over your loved ones, offering a sense of peace and serenity to the grieving. 

The pose of the angel can significantly alter its meaning. For instance, a praying angel signifies devotion to God and a connection to the holy spirit. While a crying angel express the profound grief and sorrow felt by those left behind.

Hummingbirds are symbols of resilience, beauty, and joy in fleeting moments. Despite their small size, they carry great strength and are often seen as messengers from the spirit world. In memorials, a hummingbird reminds us to cherish life’s sweetness and recognize signs of continued connection from those who’ve passed on.

The Tree of Life is a powerful symbol of God’s love and the promise of eternal life. A popular symbol on urns and cremation jewelry, it signifies hope and spiritual growth, representing the connection between the earthly and spiritual realms. This ancient symbol resonates deeply with those seeking comfort in the idea of everlasting life.

In memorial symbolism, butterflies represent transformation and rebirth, providing a gentle reminder of the cycle of life and death.

Throughout history, many cultures have believed that the souls of the deceased take the form of butterflies, symbolizing hope and the idea of spiritual renewal. In the Christian faith, the transformation of a butterfly from caterpillar to chrysalis and then to its final form represents the resurrection and the promise of new life.

Flowers and plants play a significant role in funerals and memorials, each carrying its own unique meaning and symbolism. Red roses for example symbolize love, while yellow roses represent friendship. Lilies are also popular, representing innocence, purity, and resurrection.

Ivy is another common flower, representing enduring friendship and a bond that transcends death. Olive branches embody olive branch peace and justice, often associated with reconciliation.

Daisies are commonly found on children’s memorials, symbolizing innocence. Weeping willows are often featured on memorials and symbolize grief and mourning. These plants not only beautify the resting place but also convey deep emotions and beliefs.

White doves symbolize love and purity, often featured in memorials across various cultures.

In Chinese traditions, doves are believed to ward off evil and symbolize longevity. The cry of a dove was thought to indicate that a soul was transitioning peacefully to a higher realm in ancient Celtic beliefs.

In the Bible, the white dove is a representation of the Holy Spirit, embodying divine messages. Doves are known for their loyalty and mate for life, reflecting strong emotional bonds.

Often released at memorial services, doves symbolize a celestial journey for the departed, offering a sense of peace and closure to those left behind.

Stars can symbolize guidance and hope, often representing the guiding light of a loved one after death. Moon symbols can signify eternity and the cyclical nature of life and death, mirroring the natural rhythms of existence.

These celestial symbols bring a sense of comfort, reminding us of the everlasting presence of our loved ones.

The turtle symbolizes endurance, protection, and a steady journey through life and beyond. Its long lifespan and calm nature make it a powerful emblem of wisdom, patience, and the enduring bond between loved ones. 

In memorials, the turtle represents the idea that love and spirit move at their own pace, never truly leaving us.

The infinity symbol signifies boundless love, eternal existence, and the concept of rebirth. This symbol is often associated with limitless possibilities, reflecting the idea of an everlasting presence even after death.

It serves as a powerful reminder that the bonds we share with our loved ones are unbreakable, transcending time and space.

A feather symbolizes the soul’s journey and often associated with the idea of the soul ascending to a higher realm, reflecting the spiritual transition after death. In Native American traditions, feathers hold a special significance, symbolizing honor and a connection between the owner and the spiritual realm.

Dolphins are seen as messengers of joy, playfulness, and peace. Known for their intelligence and connection to the sea, dolphins symbolize the soul’s freedom and a loving passage to the afterlife. In memorials, they reflect harmony, emotional healing, and the comforting thought that those we’ve lost are swimming peacefully in a sea of serenity.