The image of the moon is fascinating and deeply symbolic, being a great design for tattoos. A moon tattoo is a perfect choice for those who have a whimsical side, believe in the influence of celestial bodies, want to pay homage to astrology, or have an interest in astronomy or science.
Because of its apparent brightness, the moon has been granted with a particular importance in all mythologies, being seen usually as the star of the night, the female counterpart of the Sun- the star of the day and the male god.
In Greek mythology, more feminine deities were associated with the moon. In other cultures, the moon is a swing between darkness and wisdom, divine and magical.
Biblical references use the moon symbol to highlight cosmic events and the ephemeral nature of human life and history. But above all, the moon is a symbol of mystery and magic, around which many superstitions were born.
In astrology, the Moon symbolizes femininity in opposition to the Sun- symbol of masculinity and all manly qualities. Also, the Moon is associated with the soul, but also with the subconscious, while the conscious mind is influenced by the sun.
Moon tattoos are considered to be most suitable for women, symbolizing fertility, magic, mysticism, and intuition.
Moon Tattoo Variations
Considering a moon tattoo design, there are several variations in which it can be inked. Seen from Earth, there are various phases in which the Moon appears in the sky. Depending on significance, you can decide in which phase you want your moon tattoo to be depicted.
Full Moon Tattoos
A full moon tattoo is maybe the more mystical design that you can choose. It has a special importance for those interested in astrology, magic and the occult disciplines.
The magical and mysterious atmosphere created by the full moon has always inspired fears, hopes, superstitions, beliefs, legends, and charms, continuing to mark our times today, despite our claims of being rational or logical.
The full moon has been associated over time with various rituals, murders, suicides, mental illnesses, natural disasters, accidents, and witchcrafts.
The legendary werewolves are known for the power that the Moon has on them. Our fascination for stories about people turning into wolves under full moon always found new expressions in film, literature, and art.
Crescent Moon/Half Moon Tattoos
A crescent moon tattoo (also named a half moon) is a beautiful design idea for those who follow the waxing and waning of the moon and can express a wide array of meanings.
A Waning Moon or when the moon is decreasing in size, symbolizes the break off bad habits, addictions or bad relationships. It is also associated with quiet times and contemplation. A Waxing Moon means the moon is getting larger and is a symbol of growth, attainment, a time for new beginnings, and conceptualize ideas.
Moon and other symbols
Moon tattoos can be personalized with various elements to represent the exact meaning you want.
The moon is associated with many animals that come out from their lairs at night, especially to hunt. Wolves, felines, owls, bats and many other creatures of the night are linked with the moon and are perfect additions to a moon tattoo.
You can also choose a tattoo depicting a half moon and a half sun; it is a graphical way to express duality. Each of us has traits of the sun and the moon, so we can represent our inner balance.
There are plenty of ways in which you can personify your moon tattoo, just browse our selection of moon tattoo designs bellow and get inspired!
#1 Crescent Moon and Hortensia Flowers Photo: Mary Tereshchenko
#2 Dotted Moon Phases on Inner Bicep Photo: Michael George Pecherle
#3 Watercolor Full Moon Tattoo on Shoulder
Photo: Alberto Cuerva
#4 Small Colored Crescent Moon on Wrist Photo: Alberto Cuerva
#5 Black and Grey Full Moon Photo: oozy_tattoo
#6 Dotwork Full Moon Tattoo
Photo: Violeta Arus
#7 Blackwork Crescent Moon Tattoo and Rose Photo: Merry Morgan
#8 Sketchy Moon Tattoo on Upper Back Photo: Inez Janiak
#9 Crescent Moon & Aquarius Constellation
Photo: tattooistmuha
#10 Watercolor Full Moon Tattoo & Boat Photo: Adrian Bascur
#11 Crescent Moon and Landscape Photo: tattooist_ty