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Today, some of these lines are still operational in Samoa, where tattoos were performed during ceremonies and only by respected priests. They applied the designs by hand by tapping them into the skin with a tattooing comb (au). These were made from teeth, attached with a turtle shell to a wooden handle. But you need to keep in mind this is not a traditional approach. Today, there is a method to incorporate letters in Polynesian tattoo designs and styles.
Turtle
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A tattoo on one’s head or face was often considered the most sacred of all. The Polynesian tattoo tradition began over 2,000 years ago in the Polynesian, Samoan, and Māori cultures. It was often a rite of passage and was considered a very revered tradition.
Arm Polynesian Tattoo Designs

The placement of Polynesian tattoos was very crucial in ancient times and is still important to many Polynesian individuals today. The tattoo location is just as vital as the tattoo design itself. Just as they had many functions, seashell tattoos also represent many different things.
The Turtle
The tattoos are not just decorative, but also hold deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Polynesian people. In conclusion, Polynesian tattoos are not just works of art; they are powerful symbols that hold deep meanings. From the turtle representing longevity and protection to the waves symbolizing resilience and adaptability, each design tells a unique story. Understanding the symbolism and meanings behind Polynesian tattoos can help us appreciate the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Polynesian people.
Hawaiian Hibiscus Tattoo
Polynesian tattoo traditions have been passed down through generations, and the meanings behind these tattoos continue to hold great importance in Polynesian culture. Today, many people from different cultures are drawn to the beauty and symbolism of Polynesian tattoos. However, it is essential to approach these tattoos with respect and understanding of their cultural significance.
What are the meanings to these common Polynesian tattoo designs?
The tattoo was mostly for men but some Samoan women wore this body art. Tattoo designs included shapes, patterns, triangles, and solid black. But those people who wore tattoos prided themselves on the endurance of the pain and bravery. Another classic symbol that is extensively used in Polynesian tattoos is the spearhead motif.
Similarly, there were symbols specific to certain families and also symbols for particular roles that people played in tribes. Since the ocean is a source of food for Polynesian people, it also represents life, fertility, and persistence. The stylization of the waves can be representative of life, change, or continuity through change.

The designs that are similar among the Polynesian cultures hold ties to many ancient cultures and will live on by modern people getting these Polynesian tattoo designs. Although there are slight differences between the Polynesian tattoo artists’ techniques, their tools and the way they perform the tattoos is very similar. Patterns are the most traditional form of tattoo in many Polynesian cultures. But while they may look simple, they’re not just pretty forms. These patterns, in general, are stylized representations of different forces of nature or other important items. Polynesian tattoos are marked by repetitive patterns, geometric shapes and lots of black ink.
Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor. Throughout the healing process, it’s normal for your tattoo to go through various stages of appearance and texture. Don’t panic if it looks different from when it was freshly done.
They are often received as semi-gods or deified ancestors, such as chiefs or priests. They are symbols of protection, fertility and are guardians over the wearers. In Tahitian Legend, Ta’aroa was the supreme creator of the world and he had two sons that were said to have created the first tattoos. These sons became the patron gods of tattooing Matamata and Tū Ra’i Pō.
However, the Hawaiians believe the turtle tattoo brings people peace in life and a long, happy life too. For example, the meaning of the sea turtle and its shell for the Samoans is protection because of the turtle’s strong shield. For Polynesians, especially for Samoans and Hawaiians, the sea turtle and its shell have a special significance as a tattoo. Therefore, they are considered a highly prized tattoo to receive and have the power to help the tattoo wearer in many ways.