 Amulets and Symbols in Jewelry Design
Whether you call them amulets, charms, fetishes, or talismans, virtually every culture had them. I like to think of them as little works of art, but they are so much more than that. They were worn on the body to bring luck, heal, enhance fertility, protect against injury (during travel, hunting, or from bites and stings) or ward off evil, depending on the wearers beliefs and intentions. They came in many forms, made with different materials, and adorned with different symbols. The meaning and significance in the symbolism of a particular image changed from east to west, culture to culture, and even day to day. Even if you do not believe in their magical powers, it is fun to know the intention of the artists who created them, and the power felt by the person who wore them before you, as many of the pieces are antiques. Below is a list of amulets and symbols found in many of the pendants and beads in KatieO jewelry.
 Masks:
The mask was used in many cultures and represented the essences of various beings, including gods, ancestors, sacred spirits, and animals. Ancestoral masks were symbols of the spirit of the elders, whose power could be used to protect the tribe, frighten ones enemies, or exorcise demons and disease. In some ancient cultures the mask represented enemies killed in battle and were worn to show strength and power,and to ward off evil. Animal masks were used to aid in the hunt of specific animals, to prevent harm from specific animals, and to enable the wearer to capture the animals spirit and its supernatural forces. Photos: Top Left: Bronze Beauty II, from the Treasure Chest Collection Bottom Right: Bronze Beauty II, from the Treasure Chest Collection Pendants from the KatieO Collection
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