Are you in tune with your emotions and seeking a unique way to express them? Maybe you’re yearning for a passionate, intimate design that symbolizes all of your hopes and dreams. A heart tattoo could be just the thing you need.
The heart shape is a timeless symbol that embodies the essence of love, compassion, and connection, and has become a popular choice for tattoos among people of all ages and backgrounds.
Here at Tattoogenda, we have gathered 35 of the most unique heart designs out there—each one bringing its own symbolic meaning and beautiful aesthetic. Whether it’s tribal-style hearts or something edgier, we have something for everyone!
Take a look through our collection of gorgeous heart tattoos now so you can start planning yours today!
History of Heart Tattoos
The history of heart tattoos can be traced back to ancient cultures such as the Egyptians, who believed that the heart was the center of intelligence and emotion.
They also believed that the human heart also contained the soul and was responsible for a person’s morality. As a result, a heart symbol was an expression of a person’s devotion and loyalty.
In Europe during the Middle Ages, heart tattoos were popular among sailors and soldiers. The heart symbol was often accompanied by the name of a loved one, symbolizing the sailor or soldier’s love and devotion to their sweetheart back home.
This type of heart tattoo was known as a “sweetheart tattoo” and became popular among soldiers during World War II as well.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, heart tattoos were commonly used to symbolize mourning and grief. Women would often get heart tattoos in memory of their loved ones who had passed away, with the initials or name of the deceased inside the heart.
Today, heart tattoos continue to hold a variety of meanings in one’s life and are a popular choice among tattoo enthusiasts. They can represent love, passion, devotion, or even self-love.
Some people get heart tattoos to commemorate a special occasion, such as a wedding or the birth of a child, while others get them as a symbol of strength or resilience.
Heart tattoos also come in a variety of styles and designs, from traditional hearts with arrows or flames to more intricate and detailed designs incorporating flowers, animals, or other symbols.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to heart tattoo designs, making them a versatile and meaningful choice for anyone looking to get inked.
The symbolism of Heart Tattoos
Every tattoo has a personal meaning. Heart tattoos are rich in symbolism and can hold a variety of meanings depending on the design and context.
Here are some of the most common symbolic meanings associated with heart tattoo designs:
- Love and Romance - Heart tattoos are often used to symbolize love and romance. They can be a way to express your love for a significant other, a family member, or a friend. Heart tattoos can also represent the idea of unconditional love or the love between a parent and child.
- Passion and Emotion - A heart tattoo can represent intense emotions such as passion, desire, and excitement. They can be a way to express your feelings or to symbolize your commitment to a particular passion or cause.
- Loyalty and Devotion - A heart tattoo can represent loyalty and devotion, whether to a person or a belief. They can be a way to show your commitment to a partner, a family member, or a friend. Heart tattoos can also represent a person's dedication to a particular cause or belief.
- Strength and Resilience - A heart tattoo can be a symbol of strength and resilience. They can represent the ability to overcome challenges and hardships and to come out stronger on the other side.
- Self-Love and Acceptance - A heart tattoo can also be a symbol of self-love and acceptance. They can be a way to remind yourself to love and care for yourself, or to celebrate your own unique qualities and strengths.
- Yearn for Connection - The human heart may be full of love and passion, but there may also be an emptiness or longing we seek to fill. Furthermore, there's also the vulnerability that comes with giving your heart to someone. A heart shaped hole tattoo, for example, can represent all of that.
The meaning of a heart tattoo can also be influenced by the design and color used. For example, a black heart tattoo may represent grief or loss, while a red one may symbolize love and passion.
Let’s get into it!
Matching Fire Hearts Tattoo
This design is ideal for couples or best friends who are looking to express their deep bond and commitment to one another.
The fiery orange and red heart, shaped like two intertwined flames, will help you show the world that your relationship has an intense passion and lasting power!
Simple Heart Tattoo
Sometimes, less is more! This minimalist design takes the classic heart shape and adds a few symbolic details such as stars and arrows to create an understated yet meaningful piece.
Wear this tattoo with pride and remind yourself daily that you have the power to achieve anything you set your mind to.
Snake Heart Tattoo
This edgy tattoo is a great option for those looking to express their wild side.
The black snake wrapped around the heart creates an intriguing contrast that will help you stand out from the crowd.
The combination of strength and passion sends a powerful message to anyone who sees it!
Crown and Infinity Heart Tattoo
The crown and infinity heart tattoo design is perfect for showing your eternal love and commitment.
The intricate crown and infinity symbol create a beautiful piece that will remind you of your devotion each day.
Whether it’s for a loved one or yourself, this stunning design will last forever!
Broken Heart Tattoo
For those looking to express the pain and hurt of a broken relationship, a broken heart tattoo is ideal. The striking black ink will help you let out your emotions without saying a single word.
Wear this broken heart piece with pride and remind yourself that love can heal all wounds!
Red Heart Tattoo
The classic red heart is the perfect way to express your love and adoration.
Whether it’s for a partner, family member, or friend, this timeless design will show them just how much they mean to you.
Add some personal touches such as stars or arrows to create a unique piece that will last forever!
Always Love Heart Tattoo
This heartfelt tattoo will remind you of the power and strength of love no matter what life throws your way.
The delicate script and detailed design create a meaningful piece that will stay with you for years to come.
Wear this as a reminder to yourself or as a symbol of your everlasting devotion!
Brain and Heart Tattoo
This powerful design showcases the importance of both intellect and emotion.
The detailed brain and heart create a striking contrast that will help you make an unforgettable statement with your ink.
This tattoo celebrates the harmony between thought and feeling, making it a great choice for those who want to express their unique ideas!
Anatomical heart tattoo
This anatomical heart tattoo is a great way to show off your passion and strength.
The detailed design of the heart, complete with veins and arteries, is sure to make an impact on anyone who sees it!
This anatomical heart piece will help you express yourself in a bold and meaningful way.
Black Heart Tattoo
For those who want to express their darker side, this black heart design is perfect.
The striking contrast between the bold black ink and the delicate details of the heart makes it a striking symbol of emotion and passion.
Remind yourself to embrace your darker feelings and let them out in an artistic way!
Floral Heart Tattoo
A romantic and timeless design, this beautiful floral heart tattoo will make a great addition to any look.
This piece is perfect for expressing your love for someone special or simply reminding yourself that love is all around us!
Add an extra personal touch of color by adding some hues to the flower petals.
Bleeding Heart Tattoo
The perfect tattoo for those who have experienced heartbreak, this design will help you express your pain without words.
The combination of a bleeding heart and dark ink makes it a powerful symbol that can serve as a reminder to heal and move forward.
Wear this piece with pride and remember that love is worth fighting for!
Mother and Baby Heart Tattoo
The word “mom” represents the unconditional love, support, and guidance that only a mother can provide.
This beautiful design is perfect for expressing the bond between a mother and her child.
The two hearts intertwined as one is a symbol of love, strength, and protection. It’s sure to be an eye-catching addition to your look that will remind you of the power of family!
Double Heart Tattoo
One of the most popular tattoo designs, the double heart is a beautiful way to express your romantic love for someone.
The two hearts together represent the bond that connects two people together in an eternal and unconditional way.
This piece will make a romantic statement wherever it’s placed!
Semicolon Heart Tattoo
This is one tattoo that has become popular among those who are struggling with mental health issues.
The combination of the semicolon and heart symbolizes hope for the future, letting you know that even in difficult times, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
Wear this piece as a reminder to stay strong and never give up!
Heart with Cross Tattoo
A great way to show your faith, this heart with a cross tattoo will help you express your spirituality in a bold and beautiful way.
The combination of the heart symbolizing love and the cross representing faith makes it an everlasting design that will remind you to stay strong in your beliefs!
Elephant Love Heart Tattoo
A great choice for animal lovers, this elephant love heart tattoo is sure to bring a smile to your face.
The combination of the elephant, which symbolizes strength and protection, and the heart which represents love makes it a powerful piece that will last forever!
The elephant is seen blowing tiny hearts from its trunk.
Wear this design as a reminder of the importance of loving yourself and others.
Colorful Heart Tattoo
Add some color to your life with this colorful heart tattoo.
The bright and vibrant colors will bring a sense of joy and happiness, making it the perfect choice for those who want something cheerful and uplifting! It’s sure to be an eye-catching addition to your look that will remind you of the beauty of life!
Geometric Heart Tattoo
This geometric heart tattoo is perfect for those who like clean lines and bold shapes.
The combination of simple geometry and intricate details makes it a stunning piece that will be sure to stand out!
Wear this symbol as a reminder to stay strong, no matter what life throws at you.
Heart with Arrow Tattoo
This heart with an arrow tattoo is a great choice for those who want to make a statement about their love life.
The combination of the hard exterior of the arrow and the softness of the heart symbolizes strength and power in relationships, making it an ideal piece that will stand the test of time!
Placement and Considerations for Heart Tattoos
The placement of a heart tattoo can greatly impact its meaning and symbolism. Here are some popular placements for heart tattoos and what they may represent:
Chest
A heart tattoo on the chest can represent love, passion, and devotion. It can also symbolize the love and connection between a parent and child.
However, this placement can be more painful due to the proximity to the bone and may require more aftercare.
Wrist
A heart tattoo on the wrist is a popular choice and can represent self-love and acceptance. It can also symbolize the wearer’s love and commitment to a partner.
However, this placement can be more visible and may impact job opportunities.
Ankle
A heart tattoo on the ankle can represent freedom and independence. It can also symbolize the wearer’s connection to nature and the earth.
However, this placement can be more painful due to the thin skin in the area and may require extra care during healing.
Finger
A heart tattoo on the finger is a small and subtle option. It can represent love, commitment, and devotion.
However, this placement can be more prone to fading and may require touch-ups.
When considering a heart tattoo, it’s important to also take into account potential risks and aftercare.
A heart tattoo may be more prone to infection due to its location on the body and may require extra care during the healing process.
Additionally, the pain level can vary depending on the placement and size of the tattoo. It’s important to discuss any concerns with a reputable tattoo artist and follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure the best possible outcome.
Conclusion
No matter what kind of design you choose, getting a tattoo is an incredibly personal experience.
It’s important to take the time to find something that truly speaks to who you are and represents your values.
From semicolon hearts to elephant love hearts, there are countless options available for those looking to make a statement with their body art.
Heart Tattoos FAQs
Go with your own heart, but consider other factors like placement, as it may directly affect perception.
Love, passion, commitment, affection, and loyalty are all common meanings of heart tattoos. A heart tattoo could also go on to symbolize one’s emotional journey.
There is no particular price for a heart tattoo.
Factors like size, design, and location of the tattoo, as well as the quality of your tattoo artist, will greatly influence how much you’ll be charged.
However, a price range, from 1oo Euros to 3,500 Euros is standard.
Anything tattoo has to do with personal preferences. So, you can get your heart tattoo in any color or combination of colors you want.
Popular colors like red, pink, and black have proven to be standard, though.
Yes, heart tattoos can be combined with other designs to get something more unique and personalized.
Some beautiful designs you can combine heart tattoos with are flowers and birds.
