The Symbolism Behind the Traditional Quinceañera Ceremony Gifts

by Susan Hawkins

A tradition is a practice, custom, or story that is memorized and passed down from generation to generation, and there is none more uplifiting and highly anticipated than your Quinceañera. This coming-of-age celebration dates back about 2,500 years, when fifteen-year-old Aztec girls were considered women and were given the instruction and responsibilities of womanhood. While it is a tremendously significant rite of passage, this celebration is also a deeply felt honor, one that Hispanic girls today look forward to with pride and happiness.

Quinceañera traditions have evolved over time, and today there are several long-standing, symbolic gifts-often given by padrinos (godparents or sponsors) chosen by the Quince girl and her family. Those who give the traditional gifts should be formally recognized and take part in either the procession in the church or reception, or they do the presentation of the gifts for the priest's blessing. Each gift is significant in your entry into womanhood.

Ring or Bracelet

The open circle of a ring or bracelet symbolizes wholeness, completion a unifying tradition that repeats in time and the unending circle of life. It signifies the continuing emergence of your abilities and future contributions to society. The ring itself doesn't necessarily have to be traditional, although some often-seen motifs include hearts, butterflies, the number 15 or the Quinceañera's birthstone. Other popular motifs include animals, a crown, flowers, a bow or a bird.

Earrings

Earrings are given as a reminder to listen to the word of God and to always hear and respond to the world around you. Like the ring or bracelet, the earrings can reflect traditional motifs like hearts or the number 15, but other motifs are often chosen.

Cross or Medal

One of the more important gifts, the cross or medal signifies faith-in God, in yourself and in your world. As a Quinceañera, you'll make a commitment to God and the Blessed Virgin to live out the rest of your life according to the teachings of Christ and the Church by renewing your Baptismal promises.

Bible or Prayer Book and Rosary

These are simply important resources to keep the word of God in your life. Although rosary beads come in many varieties and can be very decorative, their function is simple: to count prayers.  According to Catholic tradition, the rosary was instituted by the Blessed Virgin Mary herself.

The placement of a tiara on your head tells the world you are a "princess" in the eyes of god and the world. You have triumphed over childhood and are able to face the challenges ahead.

There are so many beautiful styles of tiaras, you may have a hard time making your choice!

Finally, the scepter-another ornamental symbol of regal or imperial power and authority (remember-you are a princess) and your journey to womanhood. When you accept the scepter, you are accepting authority and responsibility for your life.

After your Quinceañera, you should keep each of these gifts close at hand, wear the ring and the earrings often, and remind yourself daily how important you've become to family, friends and the world around you.