Hearts have a way of catching your eye on a gravestone, and with Valentine’s Day weekend here, what better time to take a closer look at them as a cemetery symbol.

Maybe it’s the shape we all associate with love, or the way it reminds us that cemeteries aren’t just about endings, but also about connection.

Over the years, I’ve noticed hearts appearing in all kinds of designs, from simple carvings to detailed symbols, each one quietly telling a story about love, devotion, and memory.

According to Understanding Cemetery Symbols by Tui Snider, hearts are one of the most easily recognized and commonly used symbols in cemeteries. But hearts, like hand symbolism, often hold more meaning than meets the eye.

In Colonial-era cemeteries, hearts were often used to represent a blissful or peaceful soul, with more emphasis on spiritual contentment than romance. By the Victorian era and into today, the heart took on a more familiar meaning, becoming a symbol of romantic love, emotional connection, and affection.

On some Catholic graves, you’ll see a heart surrounded by thorns and topped with a cross. This Sacred Heart is a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and devotion, showing love and faith in a very visual way.

A menorah on a Jewish gravestone traditionally represents faith and the light of Judaism. When it appears carved inside a heart, it seems to add another layer of meaning, possibly highlighting a deep love for faith, family, and tradition.

The heart in a hand is a symbol often found on Odd Fellows graves. It represents giving from the heart, showing love, kindness, and helping others. It’s a visual reminder of the values the group shares.

The Unified Heart emblem can be found on Leonard Cohen’s grave. It first appeared in his 1984 book Book of Mercy and is made up of two interlocking hearts, one pointing up and one pointing down. People often see it as a symbol of bringing opposites together, like spirit and matter, or connecting the self with something larger than ourselves.

While it’s not a traditional grave symbol, it echoes many of the same themes of love, balance, and connection found in cemetery hearts.

Since it’s Valentine’s weekend, I’d love to know what your favourite heart symbol is? Is there one you’ve spotted that really caught your eye?

Thanks for reading!

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References:

• Understanding Cemetery Symbols: A Field Guide for Historic Graveyards by Tui Snider | Book
• Stories in Stone: The Complete Guide to Cemetery Symbolism by Douglas Keister | Book
• Gravestone Symbols and Their Meanings | The Catholic Cemeteries
• Odd Symbolism | Half Moon Bay Odd Fellows