Broken Heart Earrings - Meaning, Symbolism and Gift Giving Tips

The Symbolism and Meaning Behind Broken Heart Earrings

Broken heart earrings have become a popular jewelry choice, often given as gifts for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, and other occasions. But what is the meaning and symbolism behind these cracked or shattered heart earrings? Let's explore the history and significance of this jewelry trend.

The History of Broken Heart Jewelry

Jewelry in the shape of a broken heart has been around for centuries, with the cracked jagged line representing the pain and anguish of lost love. Some of the earliest broken heart jewelry dates back to the Victorian era in the 1800s. During this sentimental time, it was fashionable to wear jewelry representing love, loss, and mourning.

Broken heart motifs continue to have strong associations with grief over failed romantic relationships. But modern broken heart earrings have also taken on a more whimsical, cheeky meaning. The cracked heart shape remains an artistic symbol of love's ups and downs, but with a hint of hope as the heart is only damaged - not completely shattered.

The Meaning Behind Cracked Heart Earrings

So what messages can broken heart earrings communicate today? Here are some of the many symbolic meanings of cracked heart jewelry:

• A playful nod to the trials and tribulations of love
• An artistic representation of heartbreak or loss
• A meaningful gift celebrating enduring love despite the cracks
• A cheeky "love hurts" statement
• An emblem of resilience and hope, with the heart being only chipped or dented - not destroyed

In short, broken hearts are a beautiful artistic metaphor for the fragility yet strength of love. The cracks represent love's ability to weather life's ups and downs. And the heart shape remembers that bits and pieces still form a unified symbol of affection.

Broken Heart Earrings as Gifts

Broken heart earrings make for heartfelt, meaningful gifts for various occasions. They work well as:

• Valentine's Day jewelry - The "love hurts but it's worth it" message suits this holiday well
• Anniversary gifts - Marking years of love and togetherness despite heartaches faced
• Birthday presents - For those with a cheeky sense of humor about love
• Graduation gifts - Symbolizing nostalgia for school days crushes and relationships
• Friendship gifts - Celebrating sisterly solidarity and sympathetic ears after breakups

Broken heart earrings crafted by artisans especially make thoughtful handmade presents. The uneven, rough cracks add organic imperfections reflecting love's unpredictable path. Opt for earrings with asymmetrical split heart shapes for extra originality.

Where to Buy Broken Heart Earrings

You can find broken heart earrings made from various materials at:

• Jewelry stores - Check locally for access to jewelers' handcrafted ranges
• Boutiques and gift stores - For unique artisan-made cracked heart designs
• Craft fairs and markets - Support independent creators selling jewelry and clay earrings
• Etsy shops - Browse handmade broken heart fashion from crafters and artisans
• Online retailers - Names like Charming Charlie and Banter by Pierced Owl have broken heart styles

When selecting your broken heart earrings, look for delicate details that symbolize healing. For example, pieces with stitches across the cracks or golden seams binding the breaks together. This adds extra meaning about mending the wounded heart.

How to Wear and Style Broken Heart Earrings

Broken heart earrings lend themselves to playful, feminine outfits. But they also pair strikingly with edgier dark styles. Here are tips for rocking cracked heart bling:

Casual Daywear Styles

For running daily errands or relaxed weekend looks, delicate broken heart earrings add a subtle symbolic touch. Pair dainty mini heart designs with:

• Printed dresses or flirty florals
• Jeans, tanks, cardigans, and jumpers
• Leggings with oversized graphic tee shirts
• Pastel or neutral athleisure wear like yoga pants

The sweet yet feisty meaning of chipped hearts offsets feminine pieces. But keeps the mood playful versus mournful.

Edgy Evening Styles

For going out or date nights, amp up your style with bold cracked heart earrings. Compliment bigger death-defying heart shapes with:

• Little black dresses
• Leather, faux leather, plaid, or skull print mini skirts
• Bandage dresses
• Dark romance or gothic-inspired gowns

Here, damaged hearts symbolize hearts bravely surviving love's pains. Pair with dark outfits celebrating resilient women.

Accessorizing Broken Heart Jewelry

Don't be afraid to layer your broken heart earrings with other jewelry pieces and accessories. Mix and match them with:

• Heart lockets, chokers, or charm necklaces
• Handcuffs, spikes, safety pins for edgy punk-rock style
• Floral headbands, hair pins, scrunchies
• Pink or red purses take on symbolic meaning too

Have fun styling sets of multiple broken heart earrings up each ear. This makes the heart motif bolder and more badass.

Caring for Your Broken Heart Earrings

To enjoy your shattered heart bling for longer, be sure to care for them properly. Here are some earring care tips:

Cleaning Tips

Follow these cleaning guidelines to avoid damaging materials:

• Sterling silver - Use polishing cloth or anti-tarnish strips
• Gold - Clean with soft brush and non-abrasive jewelry cleaner
• Gems - Use soapy water and soft brush; avoid steam cleaners

Storage Solutions

Store broken heart earrings safely in:

• Jewelry boxes with separated compartments
• Soft jewelry pouches to avoid scratches
• Small containers for pairs; avoid jumbled tangles

Handling with Care

Always put earrings on after spraying perfume or applying lotion. Avoid tugging halves caught in hair or clothing; unhook gently. Check clasps for tightness regularly. Finally, give cracked bling a break and rotate your earring collection.

By caring for your broken heart earrings properly, you can faithfully wear this symbol of love's resilience for many years.

FAQs

What's the meaning behind broken heart earrings?

Broken heart earrings symbolize love's ups and downs. The cracks represent romantic trials and tribulations, while the heart shape remembers lasting affection despite hard times. They make cheeky "love hurts but it's worth it" jewelry gifts.

Are broken heart earrings appropriate anniversary gifts?

Yes, broken heart earrings make thoughtful anniversary presents. The cracked heart shape acknowledges the inevitable hurts faced over the years. But the unbroken halves joined together celebrate enduring love and partnership through life's journey.

What occasions are good for giving broken heart earrings?

Broken heart earrings work well for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, Galentine's Day, and other milestone events. They make fun friendship gifts celebrating nostalgia and solidarity too.

How should you care for broken heart earrings?

Carefully clean sterling silver, gold, and gemstone broken heart earrings as directed. Store properly in separated jewelry boxes to avoid scratches and tangles. Always put earrings on after applying lotions and perfumes. Check back clasps regularly for tightness as well.

What outfits pair well with broken heart earrings?

Wear delicate cracked heart mini earrings with feminine florals, jeans, and casual wear. Style bold chunky broken heart shapes with edgier date night dresses and punk-gothic inspired looks. Layer with mixed jewelry like charm necklaces and hair accessories.