The fleur de lis (sometimes spelled “lys” and always pronounced “lee”) simply means “lily flower” in French. The stylized emblem is ubiquitous and its use spans centuries and crosses cultures. The fleur de lis is said to have sprung from tears shed by Eve as she left the Garden of Eden. Catholic saints, notably Mary and Joseph, are often depicted with the lily, which symbolizes virtue and purity. Named after the wild lily flowers that flourish along the banks of the Lys River in France, the fleur de lis was adopted as a symbol of royalty and incorporated into French heraldry and coats of arms. From antiquity, the fleur de lis has been used to indicate due north on a compass rose. Today it has come to represent one’s unique path, destiny, or journey towards self-discovery. Interestingly, the fleur de lis has a special connection to the St. Lawrence River. In 1534, French explorer Jacques Cartier introduced the fleur de lis to North America, scattering them in his wake as he and his crew sailed up the St. Lawrence River (which, incidentally, he named). Since Cartier’s expedition, the French symbol remains prevalent in the region to this day, a prominent example being the flag of Quebec, which features a white cross and four white fleurs de lis on a royal blue background. sterling silver or solid 14k gold stud earrings measure approximately 1/4" - perfect for a 2nd piercing handmade in the USA
