Reviewed & updated: October 19, 2022 by Jamie Wilson BA
The carnation or clove pink as it’s also called, is undeniably a beautiful flower! Carnations are the second most popular flower to give to the person you like, just after the classic rose. If they’re your preferred token of appreciation, we highly suggest you keep reading this article!
The carnation flower has an interesting origin story. Imagine turning down a literal goddess that confessed love to you! Wouldn’t you gouge out his eyes too, just like DIana did? That poor shepherd boy didn’t stand a chance, and carnation flowers sprouting from his dead body prove it. If you’re interested in a carnation flower tattoo, check out our top 10 ideas below!
What does a carnation symbolize?
In general, a carnation symbolizes love and fascination with a person. So that’s why they’re popular in bouquets! However, the meanings change depending on the flower’s color. Did you know red carnations have something to do with socialism and the labour movement? The red carnation flower is a favorite among wedding brides. Purest of loves and good luck come with white carnations. While in France, purple carnations are reminders of a loved one passing away.
What does a blue carnation mean?
Blue carnations don’t occur naturally. Shocking, right? You need some high tech genetic engineering to get that stunning shade of blue. From blue-mauve Moondust to violet Moonshadows, science continues to make our eyes happy when it comes to flower design. Blue is often used to represent peace, truth and tranquility, so a blue carnation is ideal as a wedding flower! A symbol of true love and devotion!
Small Carnation Tattoo
Pink carnation flowers are symbols of love, gratitude and admiration. In Korea for example, they are the number one choice for Parent’s Day! If you are determined to tattoo flower design dedicated to one or both your parents, carnation is the flower for you! We think it is such a lovely and sentimental gift! Even if this tattoo design is small, it holds big meanings. So why not dedicate it to someone you admire the most – your parents or guardians!
Snake and Carnation Tattoo
Whether in the middle of your street or as a tattoo, snakes don’t in general bring good things! They are traditionally associated with death and decay in tattoo designs. But who cares if they make for an awesome tattoo, right? The combined meaning of snake and carnation tattoo might signify your love for something or someone is dead! For better or worse, you should still get this great tattoo to convey the feelings. Choose two-toned inks for that eye-catching contrast!
Quote and Carnation Tattoo
One could say the carnation flowers are strong and beautiful, just like women are! If you’re looking for tattoos to express that, we suggest getting a carnation tattoo! A carnation can also symbolize a different kind of love – love and appreciation for yourself! So why not pair this staggering carnation flower with some words meaningful to you? Place this quote and carnation tattoo anywhere you see fit and we promise it won’t disappoint!
Carnation Flowers Tattoo
Looking for a charming carnation tattoo idea on a budget? We got you covered! Take a look at this bouquet carnation tattoo design done in black ink! Combine all your favorite garden companions in a single tattoo design! The more the merrier we say! A smaller inkwork in a single color, often just black, should save you some money. A tattoo of flowers is also ideal as a temporary tattoo for weddings. So why not get this black ink carnation tattoo?
Colorful Carnation Tattoo
On the hunt for a small and fun carnation tattoo? Check out this pink and yellow carnation flower tattoo! We think this tattoo is ideal for a near the collarbone or back of the neck placement. Pink carnations are a sign of admiration, while a yellow carnation is a symbol of rejected love. If you’ve ever been sadly turned down by the person you admire, get this wonderful carnation tattoo out of spite!
Pink Carnation Tattoo Necklace Design
Have you ever seen a more intriguing carnation tattoo idea than this one? It looks as if the carnation flower itself is wearing a dainty necklace! Amazing how a flower tattoo can look so good with only two colored inks. This carnation tattoo is best suited for a sternum or back of the neck placement. Just me warned, that one is gonna hurt a lot! Pink shades look fabulous on all skin tones, so get yourself one of these pink carnation tattoos wearing a necklace!
Olive Branch and Carnation Tattoo
Need an exquisite and aesthetically pleasing floral tattoo? How about this one of a symmetric olive branch and carnation? Done in bold colors and flat shading, this carnation tattoo will stand out on anyone’s skin! Olive branches are a traditional symbol of peace offering. Combine it with the meaning of a carnation tattoo and you have totally different symbols to explore. If these kinds of carnation flower designs tickle your fancy, get this one tattooed as early as this month!
Beautiful Pink and Purple Carnation Tattoo
Looking for beautiful flower tattoos with hidden meaning? Why not get this pink and purple carnation tattoo? When it comes to flower tattoos often their meaning changes with color. Purple carnations are a sign of capriciousness, while a pink carnation symbolizes admiration for someone or yourself! So if you can’t decide between two feelings, get both in this delightful carnation tattoo! Ideal for an arm or shin placement too!
Day of the Dead Carnation Tattoo
Want to honor your Mexican heritage or show off admiration for this charming culture? Then get this magnificent skull and carnation tattoo! These skull tattoo designs are reminiscent of celebrations during Mexican holiday Day of the Dead. The pink carnation flower creates a nice looking contrast with the black outlined skull. Name anything more decorative than these floral skulls during this festival of the dead!
SImple Carnation Tattoo
Sometimes black ink floral tattoos are perfect on their own. Just as this simple carnation tattoo is! Maybe you’re looking for a budget-friendly floral tattoo or you’re not much of a color person. In any case, this elegant carnation tattoo is a perfect fit for you! If you miss those gorgeous red carnation flowers from your garden, opt for red ink outlines! A rib cage placement is certainly a rare and interesting choice for tattoo lovers. But keep in mind it will hurt a lot!
Having Said All That
Did you find our list of top 10 carnation tattoo ideas inspiring? These lovely tattooed flowers definitely deserve a place on your skin! You can choose a color that suits best your skin tone, or the meaning behind that colored carnation. Remember to always negotiate with your trusty tattoo artist before committing to the final carnation tattoo idea!
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