System and method for detecting symmetries of discrete curves. A mapping operator is applied to a first discrete curve to amplify its features, generating a first mapped discrete curve. A correlation of the first mapped discrete curve with each of a plurality of rotationally shifted versions of a second mapped discrete curve is computed, generating a corresponding plurality of correlation values. A minimum period of the two curves is determined based on the correlation values, and, based on the minimum period, a symmetry group (SG) of the two curves is determined and output. If the two curves are the same curve, the SG is the rotational SG of the discrete curve. If the second curve is a reflection of the first, the SG is the mutual reflection SG of the first. If the first and second curves are different curves, the SG is the mutual SG of the two curves.