NATIVE AMERICAN TATTOOS: SPIRITS, ARROWS, AND FEATHERS
Native American tattoos have long impacted the tattoo industry, from early traditional American tattoo flashes adorned with indigenous symbols to today’s intricate and realistic designs. These tattoos carry deep meanings and significant symbolism.
If you’re seeking inspiration, check out the designs below. However, we recommend taking some time to explore the history and significance of the symbols you plan to use beforehand. Now, let’s dive in!
TATTOOS IN NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURE
Native American tattoos are far from a contemporary trend; they have a deep and enduring history, significant to Native American cultures from Alaska to the southern tip of South America.
The art of tattooing varied among tribes, serving as a sacred ritual with diverse purposes such as protection, healing, and conveying status and achievements.
Before colonialism spread across North America, traditional tattooing and body modification were used by various nations to signify family lineage, clan crests, social rank, territorial connections, and rights related to hunting and fishing, among other aspects.
REVIVAL OF THE NATIVE AMERICAN TATTOOING
Today, individuals with Native American heritage continue to use tattooing to express their personal style and identity through symbols representing their families and tribes.
At one point, this art form nearly disappeared, but the resurgence of tattoos in mainstream culture has helped revive and reintegrate this ancient tradition into Native American life.
Both young indigenous people and those interested in Native American culture are now celebrating and honoring this tradition through beautiful tattoos featuring native symbols.
NATIVE AMERICAN SYMBOLS AND MEANINGS
Indigenous ancestors who adorned themselves with tattoos embraced inclusivity, with both men and women, as well as adults and children, using intricate tattoos to express the values of their tribes.
For instance, chin tattoos among Inupiat women symbolized various life milestones, such as marriage, overcoming trauma, having children, or reaching adulthood.
Tattoos and paint were also applied to the face and body to imbue the wearer with power. For example, symbolic eagle eyes were often tattooed around the eyes of men to give them the perceived vision of an eagle in flight.
When choosing tattoos based on your heritage, it’s important to proceed with caution and thorough research.
Here’s an overview of common Native American tattoo designs:
Tribal patterns
Portraits of American Indians, such as those wearing headdresses
Depictions of animals like eagles, ravens, wolves, spiders, owls, hummingbirds, and bears
Thunderbirds (or phoenixes)
Arrows, dreamcatchers, and feathers
Natural elements such as the moon, sun, wolves, and sunflowers
Unique options might include:
Native American scripts from tribes like Cherokee, Cree, and Blackfoot
Words in Native American languages
Designs inspired by traditional artwork
Tribal seals or flags from Native American nations
NATIVE AMERICAN ANIMAL SYMBOLS
Totem animals hold significant importance in Native American culture. In some tribes, individuals are connected to up to nine different animals, such as snakes, which serve as spiritual guides throughout their lives.
These animal or spirit guides, also known as power animals, are dynamic, appearing and disappearing based on the phases of our lives.
Here is a list of the most common Native American animal symbols:
ANIMAL
SYMBOL
Bear
courage, physical strength and leadership
Beaver
determination and strong-will
Buffalo
sacred, life, great strength, abundance and gratitude
direction and leadership and embodies both protection and destruction
NATIVE AMERICAN TATTOO IDEAS
To assist with your tattoo design research, we scoured Instagram for the best Native American tattoo ideas. Browse the collection below to explore them all:
NATIVE AMERICAN HEADDRESS TATTOOS
TRADITIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN TATTOOS
NATIVE AMERICAN THUNDERBIRD TATTOO
NATIVE AMERICAN SLEEVE TATTOO
NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBAL TATTOO DESIGNS
NATIVE AMERICAN FEATHER TATTOO
NATIVE AMERICAN EAGLE TATTOO
NATIVE AMERICAN ARROWS TATTOO
NATIVE AMERICAN WOLF TATTOO
NATIVE AMERICAN WOMAN TATTOO
NATIVE AMERICAN WARRIOR TATTOO
NATIVE AMERICAN CHIEF TATTOOS
40 BEST VIRGO TATTOO DESIGNS THAT ARE FULL OF LITTLE DETAILS
For the meticulous and discerning Virgo, a tattoo shouldn’t be just any design. It should be a work of art brimming with intricate details that reflect their analytical nature and appreciation for beauty. If you’re a Virgo seeking the perfect tattoo, or a tattoo artist looking to craft a stellar piece, then dive into this collection of 40 stunning Virgo tattoo designs! These designs go beyond the basic zodiac symbol, incorporating rich symbolism and exquisite details that will leave you starry-eyed.
THE MEANINGS OF VIRGO TATTOOS
Beyond the geometric realm, Virgo tattoos hold a wealth of symbolic meaning that can be deeply personal.
THE MAIDEN
Virgo is traditionally depicted as a maiden, often associated with purity and innocence. This can be represented through imagery of a young woman, perhaps holding a sheaf of wheat, a symbol of harvest and abundance.
THE ANALYST & THE HEALER
Virgos are known for their sharp minds and analytical nature, ruled by Mercury, the planet associated with communication and healing. This can be reflected through symbols of logic and knowledge like an owl, an open book, or a magnifying glass, or through imagery representing their nurturing side like a stethoscope, a bandage, or even a plant with medicinal properties.
PRACTICALITY AND ORDER
Virgos are masters of organization and practicality. A tattoo design that incorporates elements like gears, scales, or a bee (known for its industriousness) can represent these traits.
THE CONSTELLATION
For a more subtle approach, Virgos can opt for a tattoo of the Virgo constellation. This simple design holds a lot of meaning for those familiar with astrology and can be a constant reminder of your celestial connection.
BEST TATTOO LOCATIONS AND HOW TO PRESERVE THE TATTOO
When it comes to choosing the perfect spot for your Virgo tattoo, there is no definitive best place. This astrological sign carries significant meaning, reflecting your fearless and pure soul. Both men and women, as well as body art enthusiasts, often opt for areas like the hands, thighs, spine, or shoulders for their tattoos. The more daring individuals might even go for a full back tattoo featuring the Virgo symbol.
A well-done Virgo tattoo can look incredible anywhere on the skin, but some people prefer to be cautious about their placement. Some might choose locations they feel most comfortable with, despite the pain, such as the ribs, while others are happy to show off their body art.
When considering tattoo placement, it’s important to note that areas closer to the bone tend to be more painful. Conversely, more tender skin areas might result in less pain. However, true body art enthusiasts often embrace the pain to achieve a tattoo in a preferred, aesthetically pleasing spot. As the saying goes, “Beauty knows no pain.”
Ultimately, the placement of your Virgo tattoo is a personal choice, reflecting your lifestyle and preferences. Proper maintenance is crucial, and tattoo artists typically provide extensive aftercare tips and recommend the best products for different skin types. These aftercare products are readily available online or in beauty stores, ensuring your tattoo heals well and looks great.
OUR TOP PICKS
GEOMETRIC TATTOO
The world of geometric tattoos offers a perfect canvas for Virgos’ love of precision and intricate details. Imagine a Virgo’s element, earth, depicted as a series of interlocking triangles, or their analytical mind symbolized by a flawlessly constructed labyrinth. Clean lines, sharp angles, and mesmerizing patterns can all come together to create a stunningly beautiful and meaningful piece of body art. The beauty of geometric tattoos is their versatility. They can be bold and striking, or delicate and minimalist, perfectly suited to a Virgo’s desire for both impact and elegance.
VIRGO SIGNS WITH SYMBOLS
The Virgo zodiac sign is symbolized by a maiden, often depicted carrying a sheaf of wheat. This imagery reflects Virgos’ nurturing nature and dedication to order and service. The maiden also connects to the constellation Virgo, which in ancient times was envisioned as a winged woman.
MINIMAL COMPASS TATTOO
For the minimalist Virgo, a compass tattoo can be a perfect choice. Stripped down to its core elements – clean lines representing the cardinal directions and a simple needle pointing north – it embodies their love of precision while conveying the symbolism of direction and finding your way.
VIRGO TATTOO WITH ANCESTRAL SYMBOLS
Virgos who value their heritage can weave ancestral symbols into their tattoo design. Imagine a minimalist Virgo constellation design accented with a family crest or a geometric pattern incorporating shapes significant to your cultural background. This unique fusion creates a tattoo that honors both your celestial identity and your rich family history.
VIRGO TATTOO WITH A FLOWER SLEEVE
Virgos, known for their love of beauty and nature, can perfectly combine their zodiac sign with a stunning flower sleeve. The Virgo maiden could be delicately tattooed amidst a flourishing garden, or the constellation could be subtly woven amongst vibrant blooms. Birth flowers like the aster or morning glory can be incorporated for a personal touch, creating a truly unique and meaningful sleeve tattoo.
SIMPLE SUN TATTOO
For Virgos who crave a touch of optimism and positivity, a simple sun tattoo can be a great choice. A bold circle with a few clean lines for rays creates a striking yet minimalist design. This symbol transcends its astronomical meaning, reflecting a desire for growth, vitality, and achieving one’s full potential – all traits Virgos deeply cherish.
THE FACELESS WOMAN
The faceless woman tattoo for Virgos can hold a complex meaning. It can symbolize the analytical side of Virgos, focusing on their inner world and desire for self-improvement rather than external appearances. Alternatively, it could represent the archetype of the Maiden associated with Virgo, emphasizing purity and mystery.
THIS STICK-AND-POKE VIRGO TATTOO
This stick-and-poke Virgo tattoo is a simple yet meaningful design. Hand-poked tattoos are done without machines, making each one unique and personal. The Virgo symbol in this style looks delicate and special. It’s a beautiful way to show off your zodiac sign.
VIRGO TATTOO WITH PLANT ELEMENTS
Virgos, with their earth element connection, can beautifully integrate plant elements into their tattoos. Delicate vines or wildflowers can frame the Virgo maiden or constellation. Plants with symbolic meaning, like wheat for abundance or lavender for calmness, can add a personal touch. This fusion creates a tattoo that celebrates both Virgo’s analytical mind and their appreciation for nature’s beauty.
WATERCOLOR VIRGO TATTOO
Watercolor tattoos are a perfect match for Virgos who crave a touch of softness and dreaminess. The ethereal wash of colors can transform a Virgo symbol, like the maiden or constellation, into a work of delicate art. Soft blues and greens can reflect their connection to the earth element, while pops of lavender or yellow add a touch of personality. This style beautifully captures the analytical Virgo’s appreciation for aesthetics alongside their love for nature’s gentle touch.
NAKED WOMAN VIRGO TATTOO
While a naked woman can be a symbol of Virgo (the Maiden), it’s important to consider the potential for objectification or offensiveness. A more tasteful approach might be to depict the Virgo maiden in flowing drapery or focus on symbolic elements like a sheaf of wheat. This way, you can still celebrate the Virgo essence while maintaining a more respectful and universally appropriate design.
VIRGO FLOWER TATTOO
For Virgos seeking a beautiful and symbolic tattoo, a flower design is a perfect choice. The official Virgo birth flower, the aster, with its delicate petals and vibrant colors, represents love, wisdom, and patience – all qualities Virgos hold dear. Alternatively, Virgos can choose their birth month flower (morning glory for August or clematis for September) for a more personal touch.
WHEAT VIRGO TATTOO
Wheat is a natural fit for a Virgo tattoo, symbolizing both the harvest season (Virgo season falls in harvest time) and the meticulous care Virgos put into their endeavors. A simple stalk of wheat or a sheaf held by the Virgo maiden represents abundance, growth, and nurturing – all important aspects of the Virgo personality. This imagery beautifully complements their analytical nature and appreciation for order.
EARTH SIGN TATTOO
Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) share a love for stability, practicality, and connection to the natural world. Their tattoos can reflect this shared essence through earthy elements like mountains, trees, or landscapes. Geometric patterns that evoke stability and grounding can also be incorporated. For a personal touch, earth sign tattoos can feature their specific zodiac symbol or birthstones (emerald for Taurus, sapphire for Virgo, and ruby for Capricorn).
VIRGO SYMBOL WITH POPPIES
A Virgo symbol paired with poppies creates a visually striking and meaningful tattoo. The classic Virgo maiden or constellation can be intertwined with vibrant poppies. While poppies hold symbolism of remembrance and eternal sleep, they also represent peace and tranquility, qualities Virgos often seek. This combination offers a beautiful contrast, reflecting both Virgos’ analytical mind and their desire for inner peace.
VIRGO TINY TATTOO
Virgos with a minimalist taste will love a tiny Virgo tattoo. The Virgo glyph, a beautiful “M” with a flowing tail, translates perfectly into a small and elegant design. It can be placed on a finger, wrist, or ankle for a subtle reminder of your celestial connection. Alternatively, a tiny constellation or even a single wheat stalk can represent your Virgo nature with delicate precision.
VIRGO TATTOO BEHIND NECK
A Virgo tattoo behind the neck can be a stunning and meaningful placement. The nape offers a clean canvas for showcasing a Virgo symbol like the maiden, constellation, or glyph. It’s a subtle location that can be easily concealed with hair if desired. However, be aware that neck tattoos can sometimes be seen as unprofessional, so consider your lifestyle and preferences before committing.
FRIENDSHIP VIRGO TATTOO
Celebrating friendship with a fellow Virgo? Two interlinked Virgo symbols, like the maidens holding hands or constellations intertwined, showcase the strong bond you share. Alternatively, two birth flowers (aster for Virgo) or a single design incorporating both birthstones (sapphire for Virgo) can create a beautiful and symbolic representation of your friendship.
GLYPH ASTRO VIRGO TATTOOS
Virgos, drawn to simplicity and elegance, often favor the glyph tattoo as their perfect zodiac emblem. This beautiful “M” with a flowing tail translates wonderfully into a small and sophisticated design. Placed on a wrist, ankle, or finger, it offers a subtle yet meaningful reminder of your Virgo identity. The glyph’s clean lines and precision resonate with Virgos’ love of order and analytical thinking.
GEOMETRIC DOT WORK
Geometric dotwork is a perfect marriage of two artistic styles that resonate with Virgos: precision and intricate detail. Imagine the Virgo constellation meticulously crafted from tiny dots, or a geometric pattern symbolizing order and stability constructed with meticulous shading. This style allows for incredible creativity, enabling Virgos to showcase their unique personalities while staying true to their love of clean lines and thoughtful design.
VIRGO WRIST TATTOO
The wrist is a popular location for Virgo tattoos due to its versatility and visibility. It offers a clean canvas for showcasing a variety of designs, from the delicate Virgo glyph or constellation to a more elaborate maiden or floral piece. For Virgos who value discretion, the tattoo can be easily concealed with a long sleeve. However, the wrist also allows for subtle display, making it a perfect spot to proudly represent your Virgo identity.
SUPER-DETAILED MOON TATTOO
A super-detailed moon tattoo can be an excellent choice for Virgos who connect with the moon’s cyclical nature and its influence on detail-oriented tasks. Imagine a hyper-realistic moon with meticulously rendered craters and textures, bathed in the soft glow of starlight. This intricate design speaks to Virgos’ love of precision and their appreciation for the subtle, nuanced beauty of the natural world.
VIRGO TATTOO WITH A SLEEK MERCURY GLYPH NECK
Absolutely! Virgos, ruled by Mercury, can incorporate a sleek Mercury glyph on the neck alongside their Virgo symbol. The placement offers a cool, modern aesthetic. Imagine the Virgo maiden cradled by the wings of the messenger god’s glyph, or the Virgo constellation cleverly intertwined with its celestial ruler. This design unites logic and intuition, perfectly embodying the analytical Virgo with a touch of Mercurial communication flair.
A TAROT TATTOO WITH VIRGO
A Virgo and tarot tattoo fusion is a unique way to represent your multifaceted nature. Consider incorporating the Justice card, associated with fairness and analysis, which resonates with Virgo’s analytical mind. The Hermit card, symbolizing introspection and seeking knowledge, also aligns with Virgo’s desire for self-improvement. A talented artist can weave these tarot elements together with the Virgo maiden or constellation for a truly personalized and meaningful tattoo.
VIRGO SPIRIT ANIMAL TATTOO
While there’s no single official spirit animal for Virgo, several creatures resonate with their traits. The industrious bee, known for meticulous work and organization, perfectly embodies the Virgo nature. A wise owl, symbolizing knowledge and logic, reflects their analytical mind. Even the graceful crane, known for precision and patience, can be a beautiful choice for a Virgo spirit animal tattoo.
A PISCES VIRGO ARIES TATTOO
For those with a birth chart that blends the energies of Pisces, Virgo, and Aries, a unique tattoo design awaits! This combination offers a fascinating opportunity to visually represent this astrological blend. One approach is to create a three-part design featuring each zodiac sign’s glyph or constellation. Interlocking these symbols would showcase the interconnectedness of these influences in your life. Alternatively, you could delve into mythology for inspiration. Imagine the Virgo maiden (holding wheat perhaps) offering guidance to a lost Pisces fish, while a determined ram (representing Aries) charges forward. This imagery captures the nurturing wisdom of Virgo, the emotional depth of Pisces, and the pioneering spirit of Aries.
A VIRGO GODDESS TATTOO ON THE ARM
A Virgo goddess tattoo on the arm offers a powerful and beautiful way to embody your celestial influence. Imagine a majestic woman draped in flowing garments, perhaps holding a sheaf of wheat or adorned with a Virgo constellation. This regal depiction celebrates the nurturing and analytical sides of Virgo. The arm placement allows for a range of sizes and styles, from a detailed masterpiece showcasing your devotion to detail to a minimalist outline capturing the essence of the Virgo spirit.
SMALL SCRIPT TATTOO
Minimalist Virgos will adore a small script tattoo. A favorite quote, a mantra that reflects your Virgo nature (like “organization is key”), or even your birth motto (“For service I stand”) can be elegantly inscribed in a delicate font. Placement on the wrist, ankle, or behind the ear creates a subtle yet meaningful reminder of your personal philosophy or celestial connection.
A LUNAR TATTOO ON THE BACK
A lunar tattoo on the back can be a stunning choice for Virgos who connect with the moon’s influence. The vast canvas allows for detailed lunar phases or a powerful full moon design. Since the moon is linked to intuition and governs Virgo’s ruling planet, Mercury, this placement can symbolize a connection to deeper truths and a blend of logic with emotional understanding. Shading and subtle Virgo elements, like the constellation or a sheaf of wheat, can add a personal touch to this beautiful celestial tattoo.
TRIO OF VIRGO TATTOOS
For the ultimate Virgo self-expression, consider a trio of Virgo tattoos strategically placed. The first could be a classic Virgo symbol on the wrist, a constant reminder of your celestial identity. Next, a hidden gem like the Virgo glyph tucked behind the ear offers a subtle peek into your personality. Finally, on the back, a larger, more detailed piece showcasing the Virgo maiden or a lunar design with subtle Virgo elements can be a show-stopping conversation starter.
THE THINKER ON VIRGO TATTOO
The iconic “Thinker” statue by Rodin can hold a special significance for Virgos who value deep contemplation and analysis. While not a traditional Virgo symbol, it resonates with their thoughtful nature. A Virgo twist could be incorporating the Virgo constellation or a sheaf of wheat near the Thinker, subtly linking this universal image of contemplation with your specific astrological identity.
VIRGO TATTOO WITH A MOON PHASE
A Virgo tattoo incorporating a moon phase is a beautiful way to represent the blend of logic and intuition within this sign. The moon, associated with cycles and emotions, can beautifully complement Virgo’s analytical mind. Imagine the Virgo maiden bathed in the soft glow of a crescent moon, or the Virgo constellation cradled within a full moon circle. This design speaks to Virgo’s connection to detail and their appreciation for the natural world’s subtle rhythms.
VIRGO TATTOO WITH THE MAIDEN
The classic Virgo maiden tattoo is a timeless choice for those who cherish the nurturing and grounded aspects of their sign. She can be depicted in a variety of styles, from a realistic portrait cradling a sheaf of wheat to a minimalist line art illustration. For a touch of personalization, consider incorporating elements that resonate with you – flowers for beauty, a book for knowledge, or even subtle celestial imagery to highlight your connection to the Virgo constellation. This tattoo allows you to celebrate the essence of the Virgo nature in a way that feels true to your own unique style.
VIRGO TATTOO WITH A FLORAL ZODIAC
Absolutely! A Virgo tattoo with a floral zodiac design perfectly blends your love for beauty and your celestial connection. Imagine the Virgo maiden gracefully intertwined with delicate blooms. Perhaps the aster, Virgo’s birth flower, blossoms around her, or a cascade of vibrant wildflowers frames her figure. The Virgo constellation could even be subtly woven amongst the petals, creating a stunning and symbolic piece. This design celebrates both Virgo’s nurturing nature and their appreciation for the intricate beauty of the natural world.
MORNING GLORY TATTOO
The morning glory, while not the official birth flower of Virgo (that honor belongs to the aster), holds interesting meaning for a Virgo tattoo. Because morning glories bloom each day and wilt by evening, they can symbolize new beginnings and embracing the impermanence of life. This resonates with Virgo’s analytical mind that often seeks order and understanding. The flower’s delicate beauty can also reflect Virgo’s appreciation for aesthetics. A Virgo with a morning glory tattoo might be someone who finds beauty in the cycle of life and strives to find peace within the ever-changing world.
VIRGO TATTOO WITH CHINESE AND WESTERN ZODIAC SYMBOLS
A Virgo tattoo incorporating both Chinese and Western zodiac symbols offers a unique opportunity to represent the duality of your astrological identity. For the Western zodiac, a minimalist Virgo glyph or constellation could be intertwined with the corresponding Chinese zodiac animal. Imagine a delicate dragon (representing a fire year) circling the Virgo maiden, or a powerful ox (representing an earth year) standing beside the Virgo glyph. This fusion tattoo celebrates the specific traits of both systems, creating a visually interesting and meaningful representation of your complex astrological makeup.
THE VIRGO WARRIOR
The Virgo Warrior tattoo reimagines the Virgo archetype into a powerful figure. Instead of the traditional maiden, this design depicts a determined woman, perhaps clad in armor or wielding a symbolic weapon like a sword or shield. The Virgo constellation or glyph could be subtly incorporated into the design, adding a celestial touch. This tattoo breaks away from the stereotype of Virgo as passive and instead celebrates their strength, analytical mind, and unwavering dedication to their goals.
GIRLY VIRGO ARM TATTOO
For a girly Virgo arm tattoo, consider a design that blends femininity with your celestial influence. A watercolor Virgo maiden, draped in flowing fabrics and cradling a bouquet of delicate flowers, embodies the nurturing and graceful side of Virgo. Alternatively, a whimsical take on the Virgo constellation could be formed from sparkling stars and interwoven with vines or soft florals. Placement on the inner arm or bicep allows for a beautiful and meaningful piece that reflects your unique personality.
A SMALL VIRGO TATTOO UNDER THE COLLARBONE
A small Virgo tattoo under the collarbone offers a subtle yet meaningful way to represent your celestial side. The delicate placement allows for discreet designs like the Virgo glyph, a tiny constellation, or even a single wheat stalk. This minimalist approach resonates with Virgo’s love of precision and can be a constant reminder of your inner strength and analytical mind.
A TATTOO THAT BRINGS A LITTLE ZEN TO VIRGO
Virgos, known for their analytical minds and desire for order, often crave moments of peace and tranquility. A “zen” Virgo tattoo could incorporate calming elements like a lotus flower symbolizing enlightenment, or a balanced yin-yang symbol representing harmony. Even the Virgo constellation itself, depicted in soft, flowing lines, can evoke a sense of serenity. This style of tattoo caters to the Virgo who seeks a balance between their analytical nature and their desire for inner peace.
CONCLUSION
So whether you’re a Virgo seeking a symbol that reflects your analytical mind, nurturing spirit, or connection to the natural world, this list has provided a wealth of inspiration. With a little creativity and the help of a talented tattoo artist, you can translate your unique Virgo essence into a stunning and meaningful piece of body art. Remember, the best Virgo tattoos are those brimming with little details that speak volumes about your inner world. So go forth, Virgos, and let your creativity shine!
