What do the colors of a nautical star tattoo mean? And where is the best place to have it done?
July 1st, 2009
I have heard that colors have no meaning, but then again, I’ve heard colors have all of the meaning in a nautical star tattoo. I want to know what colors mean what. I also want to know where the best place to get one would be. I was thinking about on my right hand, the flat part between your thumb, pointer finger, and wrist bone, but I don’t really know for sure. Thank you for the help! ^_^
With a tattoo, the entire design holds a meaning that can be interpreted differently from group to group. While the origin and general meaning of the nautical star is debated it is usually accepted that sailors (a stereotypically suspicious bunch) were the first to use the symbol and that it has some connection to the north star. The usual placement was on the forearm and it was used for luck and a safe return. However, in the punk subculture it is worn as part of a sleeve of tattoos or on the elbow and usually has the connotation of "true north" or symbolically of finding one’s individual and unique way in life. Early memberes of the homosexual culture, especially lesbian, would wear it on their wrist. A place that could be covered by a watch or bracelet during the day but shown off at night.
As far as color: the original stars were either red and black (as per the compass rose on most maps) or green and black. Red and black could also mean that a sailor had traveled the Pacific at least three times successfully. (g/b could also represent starboard while r/b represented port). However now: color is your taste. There are general color meanings you can explore and pair together. And it can be a personal preference or meaning or you can look up different color symbolism as per what you want to convey. Here’s a quick chart you can go to and look over if you like: http://www.rrsd.mb.ca/riverscoll/snr1/Student_rsc/Color%20Symbolism%20Chart.htm
Just remember: a tattoo can be placed somewhere just because it suits your preference. But that doesn’t mean it won’t be interpreted as if the composition has meaning. Check before you ink.
July 1st, 2009 at 8:52 am
Katie said:
the colors are really up to the person getting the tattoo
and i like them on the back of the neck
References :
July 1st, 2009 at 9:00 am
witheringstar12 said:
With a tattoo, the entire design holds a meaning that can be interpreted differently from group to group. While the origin and general meaning of the nautical star is debated it is usually accepted that sailors (a stereotypically suspicious bunch) were the first to use the symbol and that it has some connection to the north star. The usual placement was on the forearm and it was used for luck and a safe return. However, in the punk subculture it is worn as part of a sleeve of tattoos or on the elbow and usually has the connotation of "true north" or symbolically of finding one’s individual and unique way in life. Early memberes of the homosexual culture, especially lesbian, would wear it on their wrist. A place that could be covered by a watch or bracelet during the day but shown off at night.
As far as color: the original stars were either red and black (as per the compass rose on most maps) or green and black. Red and black could also mean that a sailor had traveled the Pacific at least three times successfully. (g/b could also represent starboard while r/b represented port). However now: color is your taste. There are general color meanings you can explore and pair together. And it can be a personal preference or meaning or you can look up different color symbolism as per what you want to convey. Here’s a quick chart you can go to and look over if you like: http://www.rrsd.mb.ca/riverscoll/snr1/Student_rsc/Color%20Symbolism%20Chart.htm
Just remember: a tattoo can be placed somewhere just because it suits your preference. But that doesn’t mean it won’t be interpreted as if the composition has meaning. Check before you ink.
References :
http://www.rrsd.mb.ca/riverscoll/snr1/Student_rsc/Color%20Symbolism%20Chart.htm
July 1st, 2009 at 9:42 am
Rickyyy said:
lo
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