Star moon tattoos are a magical and enchanting choice for anyone who wants to ink the influences of the unconscious mind, religion, time, or mythology.
Half-moon tattoos, also considered a crescent moon, are a beautiful design idea for those who follow the moon’s waxing and waning or worship goddesses while paying homage to the stars and astrology.
Often depicted with the sun in a celestial design to represent day and night, or the powerful union of both the alpha and omega, a moon has no qualms shining solo. There is plenty of association and meaning behind a moon tattoo, and the personal meaning will vary based on the bearer.
The moon has such vast energy. It can ground you, or (if you are connected to the changing phases) you may even feel alterations in your moods. The moon can drive one mad or “lunatic” and may also offer comfort during the changing phases of a woman’s menstrual cycle. Crescent moons often represent birth cycles and fertility and may be worn to represent womanhood.
You need not howl at the moon to appreciate the following tattoo ideas and suggestions. This is even more true if your zodiac sign is Cancer, the Crab, known as the moon child who is ruled by the moon. The pulling and force of the lunar cycle can flip you into a different mood swing rather quickly. Wearing a half moon tattoo will represent your connection with the moon and celebrate this magical and universal union.
What Does a Moon Tattoo Mean?
No matter where you are in the world, you can appreciate the beauty of our moon. Captivating and enlightening, the moon has many associations in its physical form.
In Greek mythology, Artemis was the Goddess of wilderness and hunting. A moon is often paired with Diana to represent her protection over children and childbirth. In Wiccan religion, the moon can be associated with Demeter, Kore-Persephone, and Hecate, also known as The Mother, the Maiden, and the Crone, who represent the passage of time and life cycle from birth to death with their changing phases.
For those that are seeking a dark or gothic style tattoo, a moon can also fill that void. Moons are dark and mysterious, and if you like vampire bite tattoos or fancy werewolves, a full moon may be a likely choice.
Darkness aside, the moon is viewed as a female symbol and can also be associated with the Goddess Isis. For the Earth Mother, the moon follows the natural curve of a woman’s body and breasts and is also believed to have a connection to birth and menstrual cycles. Roman mythology carries many stories that can help you in your moon design choice, whether that be a full moon, a crescent moon, or a Mayan moon design.
When a crescent moon is paired with a small star, it becomes a recognized Islamic symbol that is known all over the world.
If you appreciate fables and tales, you may find a full-face man on the moon tattoo to be a whimsical choice. Because the design will be quite detailed, you’ll want to make sure you find the right artist for the job. Don’t rush into a moon tattoo, and decide first which phase you want your moon to represent, and if you plan on adding other details such as stars, a werewolf, the sun, etc.
Placement Suggestions for Crescent Moon Tattoos
Because a half-crescent moon tattoo is likely to be smaller in scale, this design tends to look best either on the inner wrists, finger, or even the face if you should be so bold. Placing a small moon anywhere else means it will likely disappear and go much unnoticed. If you need help deciding on a placement suggestion, be sure to discuss it with a tattoo artist. Some people decide to combine a half moon tattoo into a sleeve with a complimentary star or planetary tattoo. For added enchantment, be sure to place it where you can appreciate all of its magical force.