The fleur-de-lis is one of the most recognisable shapes in Western design: three petals, the middle one standing tall, bound together by a band. The name is French for "flower of the lily", though many historians think the shape began as a stylised iris.
A royal emblem
The fleur-de-lis is most closely tied to the kings of France, who used gold fleurs-de-lis on a blue field as their arms for centuries. Legend linked it to Clovis, the first Christian king of the Franks, and later to the Virgin Mary, which is why the lily came to stand for purity as well as royalty.
Florence, Quebec and New Orleans
France is not the only place to claim it. Florence uses a red giglio, its own version of the lily. The fleur-de-lis appears on the flag of Quebec, and New Orleans, founded by the French, uses it as a city emblem to this day.
What it stands for
- Royalty and nobility, from its long use in royal arms.
- Purity and faith, through the lily's link with the Virgin Mary.
- Heritage, for anyone with French, Italian, Quebecois or Louisiana roots.
Why it works in jewellery
The shape is balanced and symmetrical, so it sits well at the centre of an earring or a pendant. Carved into glass as an intaglio it gains depth, and framed in gold with pearls it takes on the look of 19th century revival jewellery. See the full fleur-de-lis collection, in blue, turquoise, green, red, purple, pink and clear glass.
How to wear it
A single fleur-de-lis pendant from our necklaces works with an open collar. Fleur-de-lis drop earrings are a natural pick for a wedding or a formal evening, and turquoise or blue versions make an easy "something blue".
Frequently asked questions
What does the fleur-de-lis mean?
It is a stylised lily, or possibly an iris, best known as the emblem of the French monarchy. It is associated with royalty, purity and faith.
How do you spell it: fleur-de-lis or fleur-de-lys?
Both are correct. Fleur-de-lis is the more common spelling in English; fleur-de-lys is an older form.
Is the fleur-de-lis a religious symbol?
It has religious associations through the lily and the Virgin Mary, but it is mainly worn today as a decorative and heritage symbol.