Geometric tattoos: an abstract tattoo style with its meanings

Based on geometric shapes such as rectangles, circles and simple strokes, a tattoo style comes to life with which you are absolutely on trend today. Entire motifs are depicted in an abstract way or supplemented with the help of these main features. So your motif does not have to be a geometric pattern from the start to interpret it in the Geometric style.

Geometric representations have existed since ancient times and are derived from mathematical patterns. Thus, they reflect the shapes hidden in nature. For example, a triangle can be derived from the snout of a fox, and a rectangle from the trunk of a tree.

The meanings are complex and in most cases tie in with spiritual and religious beliefs. For your convenience, here is a guide to the most popular motifs and their meanings.

1. The Elements: Fire is represented by the tetrahedron, which is made up of four triangles and is a symbol of power
2. Water is represented by the icosahedron, which stands for change.
3. Earth, represented by the cube, shows earth as a platonic body and implies stability.
4. Air: the octahedron is made up of eight triangles, is a plastic figure in geometry and represents healing and compassion
5. The dodecahedron symbolizes spirituality
6. The triangle (apex pointingupwards): represents masculinity, attractiveness, dynamism and strength, as well as the planet Mars.
7. Thetriangle (pointing downwards): symbolizes femininity, mothers and the moon.
8. The equilateral triangle: symbolizes balance and equality and is worn by both men and women, often in conjunction as a partner tattoo.
9. The circle: symbolizes infinity and immortality, either as a cycle or of eternal love
10. The Metatron Cube: is known by the name of the "Flower of Life". The design consists of 13 circles emanating from a center, resembling a flower.
11. The Ouroboros: depicts a dragon or serpent devouring its own tail. The symbol, which comes from Greek mythology, forms a circle and shows the cycle of life, transformation and volatility.
12. The Gordian knot: is based on Greek mythology and shows a knot that cannot be untied. It symbolizes connection, continuity, and in Buddhism, love and eternity or inevitability.
13. Animals: are considered a popular trend in the Geometric style and are usually engraved in black as a symmetrical image or as geometric outlines in combination with Watercolor tattoos to increase their longevity.

The Geometric style can be easily combined with other tattoo styles. Because often the most diverse shapes are combined and it is played with colors.

Transitions to other styles are also possible and popular. Thus, a motif can be optically "halved". One side of the motif is engraved in Geometric style, the other often in Realistic style in Black & Grey to create a contrast. A transition between the two styles is also possible to soften the contrast and is often seen in animal motifs.

In addition, the geometric shapes can be combined with dotwork, especially mandalas, to make them even more perfect and symmetrical. In Sanskrit, mandala means "circle", and stands for balance, harmony and unity. Dotwork can fill in the abstract shapes to approximate shading.

Since Geometric tattoos thrive on symmetry, harmony and conformity, it is especially important to ink straight lines and even shapes. Therefore, consult an experienced Geometric tattoo artist to avoid uneven and unsightly results.

Due to the many possibilities, this style is suitable for almost any part of the body, whether completely over the back or as a small finger tattoo. So the elaboration can be both impressive and minimalist and delicate!

You see, the meanings are as complex as they are simple. Therefore, choose one that is appealing and meaningful to you. After all, the tattoo must please you!