Key Takeaways
- The “Broken Jewelry Theory” suggests that broken or lost jewelry could mean there are issues in your relationships.
- Jewelry from a former partner that breaks might mean you’ve moved on, or it could be a sign you need to.
- Losing jewelry given by a friend or family member might show a relationship isn’t being nurtured.
When we break an earring or have a ring go missing, we generally chalk it up to bad luck. But, what if it’s a metaphor for something deeper? The ‘Broken Jewelry Theory’ suggests that these little mishaps might mirror cracks in our relationships.
“We use jewelry as symbols of our love and our commitment. It speaks for us, like when we give the gift of a ring as a sign of love. So, if a piece of jewelry breaks or gets lost, it is trying to tell us something,” says Audrey Hope, relationship coach.
“When a piece of jewelry breaks, I believe that it signifies the end of one chapter and the beginning of another—whether the meaning is attached to a person, a circumstance, or a season of life,” says Marrin Costello, a jewelry designer.
So, maybe that pendant given to you by your ex was meant to break now that you’re in a new relationship, or your grandma’s brooch keeps falling off because you need to let go of something from the past.
Could these just be coincidences? Sure. But maybe they’re the universe’s way of nudging you to take a closer look at your relationships.
The Origins of the ‘Broken Jewelry Theory’
The ‘Broken Jewelry Theory’ originated on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
This theory has gained momentum online because elements like gold, gemstones, crystals, and personal talismans have taken on deeper spiritual and symbolic meanings, says Claudia de Llano, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist and author of “The Seven Destinies of Love.”
In fact, metals like gold and silver have been used for healing for centuries. Similarly, crystals have long been believed to hold special properties. Many see stones like black tourmaline, quartz, amethyst, and obsidian as energy shields, absorbing negativity and offering protection. Therefore, when a crystal embedded in jewelry suddenly cracks, falls off, or disappears, some see it as a sign that the stone has absorbed too much negative energy and has essentially done its job.
“Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have amplified these discussions around signs and synchronicities, leading more people to associate broken jewelry with messages from the universe,” de Llano explains.
Understanding the ‘Broken Jewelry Theory’
The ‘Broken Jewelry Theory’ suggests that broken, lost, or damaged jewelry might symbolize something deeper in our relationships.
Jewelry carries invisible energy and when it breaks it is a sign from the universe that something in our lives or relationships has broken, changed, or transformed, says Hope.
Jewelry carries invisible energy and when it breaks it is a sign from the universe that something in our lives or relationships has broken, changed, or transformed.
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AUDREY HOPE, SPIRITUAL HEALER
However, the true meaning lies in our personal interpretation, attachment, and emotions, says de Llano. “What we project onto these signs reflects our inner state, making the significance of a broken piece of jewelry deeply personal rather than universally predetermined.”
What Does Broken Jewelry Symbolize?
According to the theory, these are some potential interpretations of broken jewelry and what it could mean for your relationships:
- Current partners: Jewelry from a current partner that breaks could indicate that there’s some conflict between the two of you. Or, jewelry that goes missing could indicate that there’s some emotional distance in the relationship and the two of you aren’t on the same page. For example, losing an engagement ring could be a sign that you’re not too sure about getting married to that person.
- Former partners: Jewelry from a former partner that breaks might symbolize that you’ve moved on from the relationship—or that you need to. Losing a piece of jewelry tied to old memories could signal that it’s time to release any lingering feelings you still have.
- Friends/family members: Constantly forgetting or losing jewelry given by a friend or family member might mirror a relationship that isn’t being nurtured. A recurring issue with the same piece (like a bracelet always unclasping) could symbolize something unresolved in your relationship with the person. Losing the jewelry might mean it’s time to let go of something from the past.
- Self: If something you bought yourself breaks, tarnishes, or goes missing, it could represent a shift in your personal life. For example, a charm falling off a bracelet might mean that you’re outgrowing an old version of yourself.
The true meaning lies in our personal interpretation, attachment, and emotions. What we project onto these signs reflects our inner state, making the significance of a broken piece of jewelry deeply personal.
—
CLAUDIA DE LLANO, LMFT
Psychological and Emotional Aspects
The ‘Broken Jewelry Theory’ is essentially based on the idea that jewelry isn’t just an accessory; it holds our memories, emotions, and connections. A simple chain might represent a lifelong friendship; whereas a ring symbolizes a deep romantic bond.
It’s this personal connection that gives the jewelry meaning. When it breaks, it’s not just a broken object; it’s a broken symbol of something that’s important to us.
In fact, the breakage often amplifies our existing feelings. For example, if our relationship with someone is already strained, a broken piece of jewelry from that person can intensify feelings of anxiety or sadness.
What’s often even more telling is our reaction to the breakage. If we immediately rush to repair a broken piece, it might indicate a desire to mend our relationship with the person who gave it to us, or to hold onto our memories of them. On the other hand, if we neglect the broken jewelry, it might reflect a tendency to avoid dealing with emotional issues.
It’s important to allow yourself to be curious about what the broken jewelry symbolizes to you, says de Llano.
It’s important to allow yourself to be curious about what the broken jewelry symbolizes to you.
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CLAUDIA DE LLANO, LMFT
What to Do With Broken Jewelry
What you do with broken jewelry depends on what it means to you. Here are a few options:
- Repair it: If the piece still holds sentimental value, consider getting it fixed. A jeweler can repair broken clasps, chains, settings, and even replace missing stones. Repairing it can symbolize strengthening the relationship or the memory it represents.
- Repurpose it: Transform the broken jewelry into something new, using the stones, beads, or metal to create a different piece. A broken necklace can become a bracelet, or an earring that’s lost its pair can be transformed into a charm. Taking something broken and creating something meaningful can be a sign of personal growth.
- Upcycle it: Incorporate the broken jewelry into other crafts or home decor. You can use it to embellish picture frames, boxes, or clothing.
- Let it go: If the jewelry reminds you of something painful or no longer aligns with your values, consider donating, selling, or simply discarding it. Letting it go can be symbolic of releasing old attachments and making space for new energy.
- Bury it: If the piece holds meaning for you but you’re ready to throw it or give it away, burying it in the earth or releasing it into a natural body of water can be a symbolic way to let go.
- Cleanse it: If you believe in energy work, you can cleanse the jewelry or crystal with sage, moonlight, or salt water to release any absorbed negativity.
- Keep it as a reminder: If you’re not ready to part with it, store it somewhere special. The broken piece can be a reminder of personal growth, past experiences, cherished memories, or lessons learned.
Keep in Mind
Sometimes a broken trinket is just a broken trinket. But other times, it stirs up emotions and memories. Whether you see it as a random accident or a symbolic message, the ‘Broken Jewelry Theory’ gives you a chance to reflect on your relationships.
Maybe it’s a sign to let go, a reminder of personal growth, or simply a shift in energy. At the end of the day, the significance lies in what resonates with you. So, the next time a favorite ring goes missing or a bracelet snaps, take a moment to pause—what’s changing in your life, and what is your intuition telling you?
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