A Compass pendant is the perfect Christmas gift for someone special in your life.

The compass is a timeless and stylish symbol and carries significance for so many.

In this post, we are sharing the meaning and symbolism of the compass, why it makes an excellent Christmas gift and who to give a compass pendant to.

No matter who you are buying a Christmas gift for or whether you are on the market for an affordable or luxury Christmas gift, there is a perfect compass pendant for you waiting to be discovered!

What is a Compass Pendant?

In a practical sense, a compass is a navigation tool that has been used by humans for centuries. Magnetic compasses, which we still use to this day, were first used in China in the 11th century for navigating the vast seas and oceans of the earth. They are an essential tool for navigation.

Magnetic compasses consist of a magnetised needle on a circle. This magnetised needle can rotate so that it lines up with the magnetic field of the earth. Compasses always point north, which allows you to figure out very quickly which exact direction you are facing. 

A compass pendant features a circular decorative version of the navigational instrument on the end of a chain to be worn around the neck. They usually display the four directions will a needle always pointing north. The compass symbol on a compass pendant signifies many things spiritually and practically.

What does a compass pendant mean?

First and foremost compasses are practical tools for navigating across land and sea. However, over the years they have had special meanings ascribed to them by the cultures that they have become so deeply integrated into. There are numerous metaphysical symbolic meanings of a compass. 

This is why compass pendants make such amazing gifts for the right person. All of the meaning and symbolism associated with the compass is infused in the pendant and is a powerful way to show someone you care.

The ability of a compass to forever point north is what makes it so symbolic. Here are the most significant meanings and symbolisms of compass pendants.

Travel Safe St Christopher Gold Plated Silver Necklace

1. Guidance

The most famous meaning of the compass pendant is guidance. The symbol of the compass can provide us with a sense of safety as we know that it will always point us in the right direction. The compass guides us home or guides us towards our next adventure as we navigate literally and symbolically through life. With the compass always pointing to the true north, we can feel assured that we will never be lost and navigate through whatever life throws at us.

2. Travel

The word ‘compass’ comes from the Latin word ‘com’ which means together and ‘passus’ which means step. This combines to mean to step together or travel together. By its very definition compass means to travel. The compass pendant is an amazing symbol for travellers and those who travel together or meet each other on their journey. As we navigate through a path that we have never travelled before, the compass symbolises the courage and the ability to find our way to our destination or find our way back home,

4. Independence

A compass is a device that shows you which direction you need to go and can take you there without anyone else. This signifies independence and willingness to push yourself out of your comfort zone and go at it alone. Know that no matter what happens you will always find your way. The compass signifies confidence and the ability to grow as you explore life. This is why a compass pendant is such an awesome gift for a first-time solo traveller or a student who is leaving school.

Enamel Compass Coordinates Dog Tag Silver Necklace

5. Safety and protection

Since ancient times when the compass was first created, it has been viewed as a symbol of safety and protection. The compass symbolises the ability to always guide us home safely and protect us from getting lost.

6. Luck

The compass is seen as a device that will bring luck to someone who is lost by guiding them in the right direction. It motivates you by showing you the path ahead. If you happen to be lost, then the compass will bring you the luck needed to find your way. The direction of the north symbolises progression and advancement which is the direction that the compass shows. 

7. Balance

Balance is a lesser-known meaning of a compass pendant. The needle of the compass’s ability to move freely and balance itself on its pivot point is what enables a compass to point us in the right direction. What this symbolises is the need for harmony and balance to be able to find the path to your destiny or the path to your dreams.

Personalised Compass Silver Disc Necklace

8. The cardinal directions of the compass rose

The compass rose, sometimes referred to as a Rose of the Winds represents significant spiritual meaning for many cultures and traditions around the world. The compass rose most famously represents spiritual direction, awakening and self-discovery.

Wearing the compass symbol around your neck as a jewellery pendant is a request to the universe to guide you toward your true north, your right path and home to the essence of who you really are. It is also a request for assistance in navigating the journey of life that is unfolding.

Why does a compass make an excellent Christmas present?

A compass pendant creates excellent gifts for Christmas! You know if you have a compass you can never really get lost. The gift of a compass pendant can apply to someone's journey through life, making it a meaningful Christmas gift.

Travel Safe Compass St Christopher Small Silver Necklace

Here are some of the top reasons to gift a Compass pendant to a loved one this Christmas. 

• They are perfect for men and women
• They are suitable for people of all ages and religious backgrounds
• Compass pendants are classic. They will never go out of style
• Compasses are a cool design
• People are unlikely to buy themselves a compass pendant
• It is a unique gift and can be engraved with a personal message
• When they are made from quality materials, they will last a lifetime
• They are steeped in meaning and symbolism, making them a meaningful gift
• There is a large variety of styles and finishes available. 
• There is a compass pendant for every taste and every budget

Travel Safe Compass Personalised Solid Gold Necklace

Who to give a compass pendant to?

• Your significant other, as a symbol of navigating life together
• Travellers (especially first-time solo travellers), so they may always find their way home
• As a secular alternative to a St Christopher for those who aren’t religious
• Someone starting university, as a symbol of navigating the next chapter of their life, moving in the right direction and finding independence.
• Men and women - there are compass designs suitable for all genders
• A leaving gift for someone moving to a different country to help them find their way in a new land
• School leavers going on a gap year
• For anyone as a sentimental keep-safe reminder
• Frequent Flyers & business travellers