In the vibrant tapestry of human civilization, few fruits have captured imagination and influenced culture quite like citrus. From ancient Chinese gardens to Mediterranean groves, these golden orbs have journeyed across continents, leaving an indelible mark on cuisine, medicine, art, and even jewellery design.
Ancient Origins: The Citrus Trail
The story of citrus begins in Southeast Asia, specifically in the foothills of the Himalayas, where wild citrus species first emerged around 8 million years ago. The earliest cultivated citrus fruits were likely small, bitter specimens that barely resemble today's sweet, juicy varieties. Archaeological evidence suggests that citrons were the first to be cultivated, appearing in ancient Mesopotamia around 4000 BCE.
The word "citrus" itself has fascinating origins, derived from the ancient Greek "kedros" through Latin, originally referring to cedar wood due to the similar fragrance. The etymology reveals humanity's early fascination with these aromatic fruits. The Persian lime derives its name from the Arabic "līm," while "orange" traces its roots through Persian "nārang" to Sanskrit "nāraṅga," revealing the fruit's journey across civilizations.
Citrus in Religious Tradition
Among Jewish communities, the citron (etrog) holds particular significance during Sukkot, when it becomes one of the Four Species used in ritual together with the myrtle, palm frond and willow branch. The selection of the perfect etrog became an art form, with specific guidelines about its appearance and condition, and every year groups of Jewish people all over the world visit Calabria to choose the most perfect ones for the occasion (I'll talk more about my region a bit later). This sacred connection elevated the citron beyond mere fruit to a symbol of divine perfection and blessing.
In Islamic tradition, citrus gained prominence in both spiritual and architectural contexts. The orange gardens (patios de los naranjos) of Andalusian mosques (now cathedrals) represent paradise on earth, with their geometric layouts and aromatic trees. The Great Mosque of Córdoba's courtyard, planted with bitter orange trees, remains one of the most stunning examples of this tradition. These sacred gardens combined spiritual symbolism with practical benefits, as the trees' fragrance perfumed the air and their shade provided respite for worshippers.
The Golden Age of Citrus
As trade routes expanded during the Islamic Golden Age (8th-14th centuries), citrus fruits spread westward along the Silk Road. Arab traders introduced lemons and bitter oranges to the Mediterranean, where they flourished in the warm climate. The fruits became symbols of wealth and refinement, appearing in medieval European paintings and illuminated manuscripts.
The Renaissance saw citrus fruits achieve near-mythical status. Italian nobility created elaborate citrus gardens, or "limonaie," while artists incorporated the fruits into still-life paintings as symbols of prosperity and eternal life. The round, golden form of citrus became associated with the sun itself, representing divine perfection and cosmic order.
From the left: 1) Folio depicting an orange tree and a coconut tree by Zakariya ibn Muhammad Qazwini (ca. 1203-1283) (Author) and Muhammad ibn Muhammad Shakir Ruzmah-'i Nathani (Scribe) 1121 AH/AD 1717 (Ottoman), The Walters Art Museum, 2) Portrait of a Lady [holding an orange], by Bartholomaeus Bruyn c.1539, 3) Immacolata col Padre Eterno in gloria e i santi Anselmo, Agostino e Stefano by Marco Palmezzano 1510, Forlì [a cypress and a citron tree can be seen in the upper right corner, religious symbols in the Old Testament].
Calabria's Green Gold
In the sun-drenched Italian region of Calabria where I come from, a unique citrus variety emerged that would become integral to luxury and culture: the bergamot. This small, fragrant citrus, growing almost exclusively along Calabria's Ionian coast, became known as "green gold" for its essential role in perfumery and Earl Grey tea.
The bergamot's story illustrates the deep connection between citrus and luxury. Its essential oil, first extracted in the 17th century, became a cornerstone of the perfume industry. The precise combination of Calabria's soil, climate, and sea breezes creates the bergamot's unique fragrance profile, making it irreplaceable in fine perfumery and demonstrating how terroir influences citrus cultivation.
Commercial label of Calabrian bergamot produced in Reggio Calabria and production facility, circa 1800.
Guerlain and Acqua di Parma are only two of the many perfume houses that use Calabrian bergamot in their fragrances.
Cultural Symbolism and Modern Luxury
In many cultures, citrus fruits carry profound symbolic weight. In Chinese tradition, the word for tangerine sounds similar to "luck," making them popular Lunar New Year gifts. Persian poetry often uses citrus imagery to represent freshness and renewal. The perfect spherical shape of citrus fruits has long been associated with completeness and unity, while their golden hue symbolizes prosperity and divine blessing.
History and rich symbolism inspire me daily and naturally translate into my fine jewellery designs, where I also draw inspiration from nature's perfect forms. Our contemporary collections include the Tabia earrings and necklace featuring natural green emeralds and 18k yellow gold, transforming lime motifs into wearable art, connecting the ancient symbolism of citrus with modern jewellery design.
Tabia necklace and earrings in 18k yellow gold, natural green emeralds and diamonds.
Preserving Heritage Through Art
As we face an era of rapid environmental change, art inspired by natural forms takes on new significance. When artists as well as fashion and jewellery designers draw from citrus motifs, they preserve and celebrate our connection to the natural world and the rich cultural heritage these fruits represent. Each piece tells a story that spans continents and centuries, from ancient trade routes to contemporary luxury.
At Hafeez, through precious materials and thoughtful design, I try to maintain our connection to both natural beauty and human artistry, celebrating the perfect forms that have inspired creators for millennia. The story of citrus fruits, from ancient groves to modern artistry, reminds us that beauty and symbolism transcend time, offering wearers a chance to carry a piece of nature's perfection and centuries of human creativity with them wherever they go.
From the left: 1) Roberto Cavalli Resort Collection 2024, 2) Still life of oranges and lemons with blue gloves by Vincent van Gogh 1889, Private Collection, 3) Dolce & Gabbana Summer 2016 collection.