The Gift of the Heart: Heart Pendant Necklaces
Last Updated January 2026
Worn close to the heart, pendant necklaces are meaningful gifts treasured long after they’re given. When a pendant is crafted in the shape of a heart, it carries extra meaning, especially when accented with glittering diamond gemstones. Whether you’re shopping for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary or a birthday, you simply can’t go wrong with this popular classic.
What Is the Meaning?
Throughout the world, the heart shape is recognized as a symbol of affection and romantic love, but its historical origins are somewhat difficult to pin down. Some historians believe the iconic pictogram was originally derived from the natural shape of ivy leaves, which were traditionally associated with fidelity, while others believe it was modeled after parts of the human anatomy. Whatever the case, the shape has long been thought to represent love and affection.
Because the human heart has long been associated with pleasure and emotion, the shape was ultimately co-opted as a worldwide symbol of romance and courtly love. It grew especially trendy during the Renaissance when it was used in artwork depicting the Sacred Heart of Christ. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the heart had become a recurring motif in intimate love notes and Valentine’s Day cards.
These days, the heart shape is commonly showcased in designer jewelry pieces, including diamond heart pendants.
Most everyone knows that a heart necklace typically symbolizes love and deep affection. Although the design has been around for decades, this type of necklace has recently become an increasingly popular trend. If you’re looking for a gift that’s straight from the heart, consider some of these popular John Atencio designs.
Adore Petite Diamond Heart Medallion Pendant
The heart symbolizes the spirited tenderness in each of us, making it an appropriate motif for Valentine’s Day. This incomparable symbol of love looks especially beautiful in John Atencio’s gorgeous Adore Petite Diamond Heart Medallion Pendant. A stylish accessory and heartfelt expression of love, this refined medallion features a sculptural heart form accented with channel-set diamonds totaling .04 carat weight. Crafted in 14-karat yellow or white gold, the pendant is designed to be worn alone or paired with a signature Franco chain, offering versatile styling and timeless appeal.
Duo Gold Diamond Heart Medallion Pendant
A refined expression of love, the Duo Gold Diamond Heart Medallion Pendant offers a modern take on a timeless symbol. Handcrafted in 14-karat yellow or white gold, this sculptural heart medallion measures 22mm x 16mm and is accented with diamonds for subtle brilliance. Designed to be worn alone or paired with an 18-inch Franco chain, the Duo Heart Medallion is a versatile Valentine’s gift that reflects love, joy, and compassion, sketched by hand and crafted by master artisans using responsibly sourced materials.
Cherish Diamond Heart Pendant Necklace
With a softly contoured design, John’s Cherish Diamond Heart Pendant Necklace is a gorgeous gift with plenty of obvious meaning. Enhanced by sparkling channel-set diamonds, this eye-catching piece looks lovely in timeless yellow gold and fashion-forward icy white gold.
Devotion Diamond Heart Pendant Necklace
The unique architecture of John’s Devotion Diamond Heart Pendant Necklace provides rare opportunities to make a stunning statement from every perspective. Tipped with fiery channel-set diamonds, this pretty piece is a thoughtful way to elevate their look while showing how much you care.
Capture Heart Pendant Necklace
Bold yet heartfelt, the Capture Heart Pendant Necklace makes a striking statement while remaining deeply symbolic. Handcrafted in sterling silver with 14-karat yellow gold, this generously scaled heart pendant measures 30mm x 18mm and is presented on an 18-inch Ritorta chain. With its clean lines and dimensional form, Capture is a meaningful gift that feels both expressive and enduring.
Divine Heart Diamond Pendant Necklace
Softly sculpted and rich with meaning, the Divine Heart Diamond Pendant Necklace is a beautiful symbol of love and connection. Crafted in sterling silver and 14-karat yellow gold, this elegant heart pendant features pavé diamonds totaling .08 carat weight. Suspended from an 18-inch snake chain, Divine offers timeless appeal and a subtle shimmer that makes it perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
Endearment Small Birthstone Heart Pendant
Accented with a meaningful birthstone, the Endearment Small Birthstone Heart Pendant is a softly refined expression of love. Handcrafted in sterling silver and 14-karat yellow gold, this delicate heart design features a 3.5mm rhodolite garnet cabochon set within gently contoured lines. Measuring 8mm x 5.5mm and presented on an 18-inch snake chain, the pendant offers understated elegance with deeply personal significance.
Inspired by the infinite circle of life, Endearment reflects John Atencio’s signature approach to fluid form and timeless beauty. Hand-crafted from the finest materials, this petite heart pendant delivers a lasting statement, perfect for celebrating her story, her birth month, or a meaningful moment you share.
Elegant or playful, free-floating or fixed, heart pendants for necklaces provide gorgeous gifts at several price points. Whether you’re shopping for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary or a birthday, these traditional favorites always hit the mark.
Still haven’t found that perfect, meaningful gift? There's no need to ever feel uncertain about finding a gift for the special people in your life. Visit any John Atencio location, and our experienced jewelry experts can help you find a jewelry piece that will blow them away. Find a location near you in Denver's Larimer Square, Cherry Creek, Boulder, Fort Collins, or in the Flatirons and Park Meadows malls.
Whether you want a stunning stand-alone piece or fashionable companion jewelry to complement an existing collection, our team can guide you to a dazzling gift that will demonstrate just how much you care.
For more inspired and unique heart-shaped jewelry, including heart pendants, be sure to see our featured Hearts collection, just in time for Valentine's Day!
Browse John Atencio's 2026 Valentine Look Book
Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with a gift that speaks volumes. John Atencio’s collections are filled with extraordinary pieces, each designed to make her feel cherished and adored. From delicate classics to bold expressions, find the perfect way to show how much she means to you. Shop the 2026 Valentine gift guide.
