Something Blue: The Meaning Behind Wedding Traditions

When it comes to wedding traditions, few are as enduring as the phrase:

"Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue."

For generations, brides have incorporated these four meaningful elements into their wedding day as symbols of love, luck, and a strong foundation for marriage. While each piece of the tradition carries its own significance, "something blue" has become one of the most beloved—and one of the easiest ways to add a personal touch to your wedding style.

Whether it's a family heirloom, a hidden gemstone, or a piece you'll wear long after the wedding day, here's the story behind this timeless bridal tradition.

Where Did "Something Blue" Come From?

The tradition originates from a Victorian-era English rhyme:

"Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe."

Each item was meant to bring good fortune to the bride as she entered married life.

• Something old represented continuity and connection to the past.

• Something new symbolized optimism and the future ahead.

• Something borrowed was thought to transfer happiness and good luck from a happily married friend or family member.

• Something blue represented love, purity, fidelity, and faithfulness.

While the sixpence has largely disappeared from modern weddings, the first four traditions remain a favorite among brides today.

Why Is Blue Associated with Weddings?

Long before white wedding dresses became popular, blue was often associated with purity, loyalty, and devotion. Throughout history, blue has been considered a color of trust and steadfastness—qualities that naturally align with marriage and partnership.

Today, many brides incorporate blue through flowers, shoes, embroidery, ribbons, or jewelry. Fine jewelry has become one of the most meaningful ways to honor the tradition because it's something you can continue wearing long after the wedding day has passed.

Jewelry Makes the Perfect "Something Blue"

The best wedding details are the ones that tell a story. Jewelry offers a beautiful way to incorporate tradition while also creating a future heirloom.

Unlike a ribbon tucked into a bouquet or blue shoes worn for a single day, a meaningful piece of jewelry becomes part of your collection for years to come. Every time you wear it, you're reminded of your wedding day and the promises you made.

Sapphire: The Classic Something Blue

Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and sincerity, making them a natural choice for brides.

Blue sapphires have adorned royal engagement rings for generations and remain one of the most popular gemstones for wedding jewelry today. Whether worn as a pendant, bracelet, earrings, or stacking ring, sapphire jewelry offers a timeless interpretation of the something blue tradition.

Looking for that classic, deep blue hue? Try these Anne Sportun Climber Studs paired with these Anne Sportun Cluster Earrings.

Aquamarine: Calm, Clarity & New Beginnings

With its soft ocean-blue color, aquamarine is another beautiful choice for bridal jewelry.

Traditionally associated with serenity, courage, and clear communication, aquamarine symbolizes many of the qualities couples hope to bring into marriage. Its lighter blue hue also pairs beautifully with modern bridal styling.

The soft and subtle curves of this Marlo Laz Aquamarine Wave Band makes it an interesting piece to wear or alone or add to your stack.

Blue Tourmaline: A Symbol of Communication & Emotional Balance

For brides looking for something a little less traditional, blue tourmaline offers a unique and meaningful interpretation of the something blue tradition.

Known for its rich ocean-inspired hues, blue tourmaline is often associated with communication, emotional clarity, and inner harmony. These qualities make it an especially fitting gemstone for marriage, symbolizing openness, understanding, and a strong emotional connection between partners.

Its distinctive color feels both timeless and unexpected, making blue tourmaline a beautiful choice for brides who want their wedding jewelry to feel personal rather than predictable. Whether worn as a pendant, ring, or pair of earrings, blue tourmaline adds a subtle pop of color while carrying a meaningful story.

This show-stopping Celine Daoust OOAK Blue Tourmaline Necklace paired with champagne diamonds is one of our absolute faves! The deep greyish-blue hue reminds of deep, carribbean waters.

A Tradition That Becomes an Heirloom

One of our favorite things about the something blue tradition is its ability to evolve. While the meaning remains rooted in history, every bride can make it her own.

Some choose to wear a piece gifted by a loved one. Others select a gemstone that holds personal significance. Many brides choose a piece they know they'll continue reaching for long after the wedding day.

Years later, that same necklace or pair of earrings may become someone else's "something borrowed"—a beautiful reminder that traditions aren't just about the past. They're about the stories we continue to create.

Find Your Something Blue

Whether you're looking for a delicate sapphire pendant, a pair of aquamarine earrings, or a modern blue tourmaline piece, your something blue should feel personal to you.

At Porterfi, we believe bridal jewelry should be just as wearable after the wedding as it is on the big day. Explore our curated collection of blue gemstone jewelry and discover a piece you'll love long after you've said "I do."

Shop Our Something Blue Collection
Explore blue sapphires, aquamarines, blue tourmalines, and other meaningful gemstones perfect for weddings, bridal gifts, and future heirlooms by shopping from our Something Blue Edit.