The memorial tattoo is either an exact representation of the object to be remembered, like a portrait, or else it’s a symbolic mark like a name, a date, or a zodiac sign or ‘kanji’ icon. It probably all started with the famous ‘heart’ tattoo with a ribbon banner through the middle bearing the word ‘Mom’. This was popular with servicemen who wanted to remember home and what they were fighting for. Angels and cherubs are often chosen to mark the death of a child.
Memorial tattoos are very popular kind of tattoo because although resulting from a sad situation such as a pet that may have passed away it provides an opportunity for you to remember them under than a simply photograph.
A tattoo that signifies a significant life changing event is another awesome idea. Perhaps you have overcome something painful like an illness or a bad relationship. Maybe you want to change how you live and want your tattoo to reflect that.
A tattoo about your own passion can also be quite meaningful, although many people fall into the “fad trap” when they choose a tattoo like this. If you are really passionate about something however, then this might be a good tattoo with meaning.