40+ Best Olive Branch Tattoo Designs. Ancient And Modern Meanings

There is this saying that tattoos are the artistic expression of someone’s personal story, beliefs, lifeworld, pain, happiness, important events, etc. As such, we can summarize that a tattoo is inked in one person’s skin for a precise reason.

When it comes to tattoo designs, there is a lot of symbolism behind every tiny detail. Each color, each ink line, has a specific meaning for body art enthusiasts. Speaking of sublime tattoo ideas, one of the most symbolistic signs would be the olive branch tattoo.

There was a time in the tattoo world when leaves were some of the most trendy ideas you could apply. Whether there were Eucalyptus, Cannabis, Oak, or Aloe leaves, these tattoo designs looked terrific on the skin. But then and now, the olive leaves and branch tattoos are still a mainstay among body art enthusiasts, as a meaningful yet a metaphor for many things.

The olive branches are excellent ideas for peaceful and spiritual souls. Enthusiast can express their feelings by inking these symbols in their skin. Looking back thousands of years ago, olive trees have been the metaphor for peace, happiness, victory, and wisdom. So why not consider wearing them forever as a charm?

This article will break down all the meanings of olive brand tattoos and light some olive branch tattoo sketches.

What Do Olive Branches Symbolize?

Considering olive branch tattoos are some of the most popular ink designs, it means these natural elements have a pretty rich symbolism behind them. So, the simple question is: what do olive branches represent?

Olives are delicious fruits, famous for their rich-tasting oil. Apart from their flavorsome side, the olive branches are full of meanings.

From Greek mythology to Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism, olive branches symbolize hope, harmony, and peace. [1]

Of course, there are many ways to interpret the significance of these natural elements, but most of the meanings are strongly connected to cultural and personal values.

Make sure you keep in mind the personal implications of olive branches when choosing the favorite design.

Olive Branches In Greek Mythology

There is nothing more inspiring and with a more substantial symbolic influence than olive branch tattoos. Although these might seem only ornamental displays well, they are full of spiritual and historical significance.

In Greek Mythology, people used olive branches to symbolize everlasting insight and clarity. Furthermore, these natural elements were a representation of victory and a direct connotation of peace and tranquility.

After Greece won the right to Athene against Poseidon, the society used olives as a sign of peace and victory. You might have already seen these symbols in the Greek and classic medieval stories.

Furthermore, the Greek society believed olive branches were an emblem of abstinence. Also, during the wedding ceremonies, brides used to wear these adornments.

Then men could get an olive illustration as the proud commemoration of their enduring partnership. During these moments, the olive branches were a sentimental reminder for the simple, humble first moments in any marriage’s beginnings.

Greeks consider olive branches as symbols of wisdom too. No wonder a banner illustrated two olive branches and tombstones of intellectuals during the first Olympic games in ancient Greece. [2]

Olive Branches Meaning In Christianity

Among all the major religions in this world, Christianity and Judaism have mostly considered olive branches to be a symbol of peace and hope. Besides, these elements were also a representation of binding relationships and restoration between divinity and the people.

Matching Olive Branches Tattoos

There are many other ink meanings when it comes to olive branch tattoos. Some of them have deeper connotations, while others relate only to their beautiful look.

Some people consider these to be a symbol of positivity and clarity. On the other hand, others feel like olive leaves will bring peace to their lives.

When olive branches are inked as matching tattoos, they represent deep love and a strong bond between them.

Thus, usually, people who choose to tattoo these symbols as matching body art want to express a life-long bond that cannot break.

Unlike other matching tattoo ideas, the olive branches can match line for line. This means that once two people stay close to each other, the tattoo will look like a whole.

The green leaves of the olive branches are specific for love and life, and they are the symbol of longevity.

10 Best Body Areas For Olive Branch Tattoos

Nowadays, the olive brand tattoos are getting more and more the attention of body art enthusiasts. And there is no wonder why, as these ink ideas have a particular delicacy, you simply cannot stop loving.

Their shape is nearly perfect, and the symbolism of the design is rich. Furthermore, these superficial branches have the most beautiful minimalist form to suit anywhere on the body. If you have decided to get a meaningful tattoo, find some more inspiration down below.

Here are is how these olive branch tattoos would look on your skin:

The rib-cage olive branch tattoo

Personal opinion: This can be considered a symbol for longevity and life, making it perfect for any gender.

Warning: The rib cage area is a painful one compared to other parts of your body. Think about this decision well before you start inking it.

The Shoulder Olive Branch Tattoo

Personal opinion: Having this kind of tattoo represents the dignity of peace. I love it, especially when I see it on a woman’s shoulder.

The olive branch tattoo on the arm

Personal opinion: If the shoulder is a place for a more feminine olive branch tattoo, I think the arm is a more manly one. However, it suits both genders. Furthermore, it can represent the symbol of your victory.

The olive branch tattoo on the wrist

Personal opinion: This tattoo model can be a piece of very elegant ink jewelry for the ladies to wear on any kind of occasion.

Olive branch tattoo on the forearm

Personal opinion: It is perfect for both men and women. Also, it looks pretty when made with colors as well as a simple black model.

Ankle olive branch tattoo

Personal opinion: Just as the wrist tattoo, the ankle one is perfect for the ladies.

Olive branch tattoo on the scalp

Personal opinion: Even though getting a scalp tattoo is not usual, it can symbolize a Greek mythology reminiscing.

The collarbone matching olive branch tattoos

Personal opinion: This is a delicate kind of tattoo, perfect for people who want a gentle model.

The inner arm minimalist olive branch tattoo

Personal opinion: Perfect model for those people who like to be very discreet about their body art.

The heart olive branch tattoos

Personal opinion: I honestly think that this tattoo symbolizes peace and love like no other. So, if you are a pacifist, this is the one for you.

Olive branch tattoo ideas

Usually, the olive branch tattoos are small body art designs to apply them anywhere on the body.

On the other hand, adding different elements around or within these branches is unusual. And I would not recommend it, as these olive branches are divine and so peaceful by themselves.

Tender people would love these designs, and also leave some pieces of olives on the branches, as the original aspect of them.

Once doing the research, you might notice that most of the olive branch tattoo designs are monochromatic. And there’s a reason behind that: the final look is simple and more delicate.

Take a look at the following options and find some inspirational models just down below. I am sure that you will find great inspiration for your next ink.

Greek Olive Branch Tattoo

According to legends, there was this fight between Greek Goddess Athena with Poseidon, fighting to win Athena. While Poseidon built a well, Goddess Athen planted the first olive tree right next to this well.

All the other goddesses and gods thought Athena’s gift was more inspirational than Poseidon’s, so they decided to offer Athena’s land.

They were so considering this myth that olive trees have such a powerful meaning and influence in the Ancient Greeks’ minds. So, in that case, this simple plant was more valuable than water.

This legend influenced today’s Greek economy, as the Hellenic country produces more than 7.5% of all olive oil in the entire world.

Getting a traditional olive branch tattoo means prosperity, life, as well as victory. [3]

The Dove With Olive Branch Tattoo

One of the most beautiful images in terms of body art is a Dove with an olive branch tattoo. This is such a peaceful, Biblic image, with a divine look that brings hope in people’s lives.

One of the very first specifications of the dove with an olive branch was in the Hebrew Bible. In these pages, there was Noah, sending a white dove to spread his message about the divine outrage.

Later on, the bird returned to Noah’s ark with an olive branch in her nib. Furthermore, the branch was also an early sign for timely Christians.

During the 5th century, the olive branch became a symbol of peace in the official Christian belief.

If you want to wear a tattoo that symbolizes a divine moment along with Christian history and peace, serenity, and joy, consider having the dove with an olive branch tattoo.

Also Read: Top 33 Gorgeous Dove Tattoo Design Ideas (2023 Updated)

Colorful Tattoo Branch Tattoo

When it comes to olive branch tattoo meanings, the green leaves represent prosperity, love, and life. Furthermore, the olive branch is also the sign that embodies fertility and immortal spirit.

Choose a colorful tattoo that can represent your desire to find inner peace, which means life renewal.

Now that we have mentioned this branch’s green leaves, let us tell you about another worth remembering story.

In the olden days, there was this tradition for the messenger to come with a wool collection, together with an olive branch. These tiny details were meant to show that the good intentions were sincere and genuine.

Minimalist Olive Branch Tattoos

Whether it is an olive branch tattoo on the collarbone, on the wrist, or the inner arm, this small, minimalist design is ideal for various parts of the body.

Considering it is unusual to add other elements to the olive branch, go with a simple body art idea, made in fine lines, with an ideal contour of the leaves and few olives.

Most of these olive branch tattoo small designs are in black and grey to keep the simplistic idea and add even much more delicacy and simplicity.

There is a wide range of minimalist olive branch tattoos for males and females, so the inspiration for the next ink is easy to find.

Matching Olive Tree Branch Tattoo

If you want to show devotion to a loved one, what better way to make the bond than with a tattoo? The matching olive tree branch tattoos symbolize sincerity to one another, love, and loyalty.

Circular Olive Branch Tattoo

If you are looking for an olive branch tattoo design that is simple, minimal, and symbolizes the life cycle, this circular body art idea will match your wishes.

Add the details you wish for and place the tattoo on a significant body part.

Heart-Shaped Olive Branch Tattoo

Express love and choose to have a simple heart-shaped olive branch tattoo design. This eternal-looking body art suits especially women and is the symbol of tenderness and intimacy.

Olive Branch Tattoo With Floral Elements

Most of the olive branch tattoo designs come in simple lines without further addition.

However, if you are a romantic spirit, you can ask the tattoo artist for a lavender and olive branch tattoo with a meaningful design. You are free to choose other flowers as well, like roses, marigolds, violets and so on.

You can also ink yourself with a bundle of olive branches, rosemary, and mint. Can you already feel the refreshing perfume of this bouquet?

Dot-Work Olive Branch Tattoo

The dot tattoo technique is impressive and adds such a particular vibe to the final look of your body art. The Dot-Work Olive Branch tattoo would look amazing on your skin, with fine, delicate details.

Sword Olive Twigs Tattoo

These olive tree branch tattoos make you think of the Greek mythology. They would look amazing on the back, around the knee, or on the inner side of the arm.

Traditional Olive Branch Tattoo

Whether you choose to have a colorful olive tree branch tattoo, a black and grey one, or a design with small olives all through the leaves, the traditional method is always on point.

Simple Olive Leaves Tattoo Design

For those looking for a more botanical-like tattoo and who don’t want to tattoo with the whole olive branch, the simple leaves are an excellent and elegant alternative.

They look great on the wrist, on the ribs, or the shoulder and will never forget you of the beautiful symbols and interpretations of olive branches.

Olive Tattoos: More FAQ

Let’s see if you still have answered questions regarding this topic.

Q: Does the tattoo artist really matter when it comes to this kind of design?

A: An excellent professional tattoo artist can make all those minor tweaks to the initial design so that the result will fit ideally to your skin and personality.

Furthermore, an experienced artist has enough expertise to offer that essential second opinion on your design. Who knows, maybe together you will end up with a different idea.

Last but not least, the artist you choose should make you feel confident, work in a hygienic medium, and offer a long-lasting olive branch tattoo on your skin.

Q: Can I incorporate an olive branch into a full sleeve model?

A: Of course you can. Find a meaningful idea and grow your tattoo design as much as you want.

Q: Should I make the olive branch tattoo colorful or not?

A: This kind of design is very beautiful, both in colors or monochromatic. It really is a preference kind of thing.

Last Thoughts

Hopefully, this article has enhanced your knowledge and research on the best olive branch tattoo designs. This botanical tattoo idea is meaningful, quite traditional, and very popular among body art enthusiasts.

Although they might not seem too significant at first glance, olive tree branch tattoos will give such a nice look to your body. So if you are planning on getting this type of tattoo, be sure to do your research first on the most fabulous designs.

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