 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 bitesand 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.
Amber:
Amber was thought to be congealed sunlight and contain the essence of life. In some culture it was considered a symbol for passion, female energy and fertility. Since antiquity is has been used as a talisman to cure many diseases, including asthma, headaches, and rheumatism. In ancient Greece it was sacred to the sun god Apollo. The Vikings believed it to be the tears of Freya, their goddess of love.
In ancient China, the word for amber meant "tiger soul". They believed that when a tiger died, its spirit entered the earth and became amber. Since amber represented the souls of many tigers and had the power of many suns, it was considerd to be a symbol of courage, and help protect warriors. Photos: Top Left: Amber Leaves, from the Treasure Chest Collection Bottom Right: Papaya, from the Treasure Chest Collection Amber Leaves, from the Treasure Chest Collection
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