 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.
 Mermaid:
The mermaid with the body of a woman and the tail of a fish is a symbol for fertility, eternal grace and beauty. As with many water creatures she is associated with the moon, mystery, and the unconscious. Residing in the cosmic ocean from which all life has emerged and into which it must eventually return, the mermaid also represents renewal, purification, wisdom, and infinity. Photos: Top Left: Swimming Mermaid Bracelet, from the Totem Bracelet Collection Bottom Right: Red Mermaid, from the Treasure Chest Collection Merry Mermaid, from the Fringe Collection Swimming Mermaid, from the Totem Bracelet Collection
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