Meaning of The Butterfly Necklace and Symbol
Animals are commonly used as symbols. Some birds, for example, are symbols of freedom and/or motherhood. Butterflies are another common symbol. Did you know that there are more than 25,000 species of butterflies flittering around? And while different societies and cultures peg their own meaning to the butterfly, it is universally known that butterflies represent transformation and change. It is obvious to see why – as the butterfly starts as one creature and through the process of metamorphosis changes into something else!
Published June 26, 2025.
The Symbolism of Butterfly Metamorphosis
The stages of change from a small caterpillar to a beautiful butterfly have their own meaning. This change symbolizes the change a person will go through in their life in regards to their way of thinking or personality.
In the caterpillar stage, the symbolism is linked to insatiable materialism. Just as caterpillars have a huge appetite, in this stage, a person has a need for something and a lot of it. In the chrysalis stage, this is where the change first starts to occur. A person may start changing their point of view or mentality. At the butterfly stage, a person fully lets go and is seen as being able to freely express themselves. That is why the butterfly is a symbol of freedom and naturalness.
The Meaning of the Butterfly Symbol
Native Americans believe if you capture a butterfly, tell it a wish, and then release it, it will fly up to the Great Spirit and grant your wish. There is a beautiful Native American story that to get babies to go from crawling to walking, pebbles were thrown into the air and as they scattered, turned into butterflies. The children were so excited they stood up to chase them.
Different cultures affix different meanings to butterflies. For example, in Asia, a butterfly symbolizes a long life. And if you see two butterflies together, it represents love. You can see this representation in weddings throughout the United States where butterflies are released after the wedding ceremony is completed.
Get Personalized Butterfly Jewelry at Theo Grace
Butterflies are a wonder of nature, starting as one thing and turning into something else. Did you go through your own transformation? Have you changed something significant about yourself and want to commemorate it? Then you should definitely get yourself a butterfly necklace. Celebrate an important even by personalizing a butterfly charm with a name, word, or even date significant to you. If you take the butterfly meaning to heart, get a beautiful butterfly pendant necklace or bracelet today at Theo Grace!
Butterfly necklace meaning
The butterfly necklace carries a rich and profound meaning. Butterflies symbolize transformation, rebirth, and growth. Just as a caterpillar undergoes a metamorphosis, emerging as a beautiful butterfly, this necklace represents personal growth, embracing change, and the beauty that can come from transformation. It serves as a reminder of the potential for growth and the ability to overcome challenges. The butterfly necklace can also symbolize joy, freedom, and the fleeting nature of life. Wearing this necklace can be a powerful way to express one's own journey of transformation and to celebrate the beauty and resilience that can be found in embracing change.
The Power of Wearing a Butterfly Necklace
Wearing a butterfly necklace can serve as a personal reminder of resilience, growth, and change. It’s a symbolic companion through life’s transitions—whether that’s a new job, a breakup, a recovery journey, or a milestone like graduation.
Many wearers choose it to mark:
A fresh start
A memorial for a loved one
A celebration of freedom or independence
"When I finished my chemotherapy, my best friend gave me a gold butterfly necklace. It symbolized my rebirth. I wear it every day as a reminder of my strength." — Lena, California
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a butterfly necklace a good gift for a grieving friend?
Yes. It can be a powerful symbol of remembrance, healing, and hope.
What does it mean when you give someone a butterfly necklace?
You're gifting them a symbol of transformation, freedom, or love—depending on the context and design.
Can men wear butterfly necklaces?
Absolutely. Jewelry is personal. Many men wear butterfly necklaces as a statement of creativity, transformation, or to honor someone meaningful.
How to Care for Your Butterfly Necklace
To care for your butterfly necklace, store it safely, avoid water and chemicals, and gently clean it with a soft cloth.
