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.

Coral:

Coral has been used as amulets for thousands of years, and was considered to be very powerful.  As with many water symbols it was associated with female energy.  The Greek word for coral - korallion - means the doll of the sea.  In classical mythology it was said that coral grew from the blood of Medusa.  In ancient Rome, amulets of coral were thought to staunch bleeding and protect children from illness.  Coral was also used by ancient mariners to protect them when they sailed the oceans. 

 In medieval times it was believed that the only way to cross a river was to carry a piece of red or white coral.  Worn as a talisman it also had the power to shield against the weather, cure madness, and imbue the wearer with wisdom.  Unbroken branches were considered the most powerful.  Coral necklaces were also worn by children for protection.

Coral was also highly prized in India and Tibet where it was considered lucky.  It was worn by women to strengthen their blood and help with fertility. The larger the piece of coral the more powerful it was thought to be.  The red coral from the Mediterranean was the most highly valued.

Photos:

Top Left:  Pendant from the KatieO collection

Bottom Right:  Red Sea, from the Fringe Collection

                          Black Coral, from the Mens Heritage Collection

                          Om Vine, from the Treasure Chest Collection

                          Pendant from the KatieO collection