Olive motif – an ancient ornament symbolizing peace and prosperity
What is Olive?
Olives are an evergreen tree that represents the Mediterranean region, and their fruit has been deeply linked to human life as food and oil.
At the same time, leaves and branches have appeared in art and decoration since ancient times as motifs representing "peace" and "abundance."
Origins in Ancient Greece
Athenian myth: The goddess Athena gave the olive tree as a gift, which gave the city of Athens its name.
Olympian Crown: In the ancient Olympic Games, winners were awarded an olive wreath (kallistephoros).
From this point on, the olive became a symbol of victory and glory.
Roman meaning
In Rome, the olive tree symbolizes peace, prosperity, and holiness.
After war, it was customary to raise an olive branch as a sign of peace.
→ This is the background to why it has spread around the world as a "symbol of peace" even today.
Development in Medieval to Early Modern Europe
In Christian art, the scene in the story of Noah's Ark in which a dove returns carrying an olive branch has been depicted as a symbol of "reconciliation between God and man" and "the beginning of a new peace."
In heraldry, the olive branch has also been adopted as a design symbolizing reconciliation, harmony, and sincerity.
Decoration and jewelry since the Renaissance
In Renaissance decoration, olive branches are often combined with laurel leaves and acanthus leaves to emphasize both victory and peace.
In modern times, it has been incorporated into the designs of national flags and medals, becoming a symbol of prosperity and peace for nations and communities.
In jewelry design, the delicate curves of the olive leaf are popular as an ornament that represents peace, love, and lasting bonds.
Summary of symbolic meanings
- Peace (olive branch = sign of peace)
- Prosperity and abundance (from fruit and oil)
- Victory and Glory (Ancient Olympic Crown)
- Harmony and honesty (significance in heraldry and religious art)
- Divinity (association with the goddess Athena)
summary
The olive motif has remained an important symbol of peace, prosperity, and victory from ancient times to the present day.
When incorporated into jewelry or engraving designs, it is a very attractive design that gives "harmony and blessings" to the wearer.
