Tribal Rose Tattoos

Three types of tribal rose tattoos can be from these three crosses commonly used by the Roman army in the first century A.D. Each carried an inscription stating the victim's capital offence and a seat-like projection, not designed for the victim's comfort, but to prolong their agony. Nails and or ropes held the victim's legs and arms in place.

Tribal rose tattoos say “I love you” and also stand for respect and courage. Rosebuds symbolize beauty, youth and a heart innocent of love or:  “You are young and beautiful.”  Red tribal  rosebuds mean “pure and lovely” and white rosebuds signify girlhood or “too young to love.” The moss rosebud stands for confessions of love. 

A single rose stands for simplicity.  In full bloom, it means “I love you” or “I love you still,” and a bouquet of roses in full bloom signifies gratitude. 

White roses have several meanings:  “You’re heavenly,” reverence and humility, innocence and purity, “I’m worthy of you,” and secrecy and silence. 

Red and white roses together, or white roses with tribal red edges, signify unity. 
 
Pink roses in general symbolize grace and gentility.  For more subtle shades of meaning, choose deep pink to stand for gratitude and appreciation.  Light pink conveys admiration and sympathy.