Charms, Amulets & Talismans
A charm is worn to attract good luck, an amulet provides protection from danger, and a talisman is used to attract a particular benefit to the owner.
CHARMS
The word 'charm' comes from the French~'charme', which means song. Almost anything can be used as a charm. Buttons and coins are good examples. Lucky charms are normally carried on the person, but there are always exceptions ofcourse. Perfect example of a charm not worn on the person: the little angels that some people have in their cars for protection.
The Ankh is a personal favorite of mine. It is an ancient Egyptian symbol for everlasting life. It also wards off illness and disease, so could also be used as an amulet and charm. I used to wear a sterling silver version around my neck all the time, now it hangs above my head where I sleep in the bedroom.
AMULETS
Amulets have been worn for protection for thousands of years. Originally, amulets were natural items, such as an animal's tooth or semi-precious stone. However, people can make an amulet out of anything they like. Knots make effective amulets because they were believed to catch evil spirits.
Take your time choosing an amulet, think about it's purpose, your intent and how you will wear or carry it. Sometimes an amulet will find the owner when the owner is in need of one.
I personally wear a black onyx in the shape of the 'typical crystal' on a necklace, this protects me and helps keep me safe. (Black Onyx is also one stone that is a favorite to my personal deity, *Hecate ...a special reason why this amulet is always with me-night and day. I feel naked without it...just like if I were to not have a pentacle on, it is a form of protection. A bone pentacle resides in my car to keep it and myself safe while driving. I wear a double pentacle sterling silver ring, and a gorgeous but small celtic pentacle around my neck...these are what is right for me, though.)
TALISMANS
Because talismans are intended to provide power, energy and specific benefits, they are often made at times that are believed to be spiritually significant. They are frequently made from stone, metal, or parchment as these can be easily inscribed with words or pictures to add additional power.
The most famous talisman is a six pointed star, made from two overlapping triangles. The upward pointing triangle symbolizes fire, the sky, and male energy. The downward pointing triangle symbolizes water, earth, and female energy. Sound familiar to anyone??? (hint: not a pentagram)
GEMSTONES AS AMULETS & TALISMANS
Crystals and gemstones have been used as amulets and talismans for thousands of years. The best crystal or gemstone to use is one that appeals to you. Each colored gemstone has a different personality...if you are looking for something particular, here is a simple guide to help:
Red: passion, energy. Ruby, Garnet, Red Jasper
Orange: close relationship and personal satisfaction. Citrine, Carnelian, Orange Sapphire
Yellow: fun-filled, joyful aspects of life. Yellow Beryl, Topaz
Green: hardwork, accomplishment. Emerald, Peridot, Tourmaline
Blue: enhance clarity, perception. Lupis Lazuli, Sapphire, Blue Tourmaline
Indigo: caring for others. Sodalite, Iolite
Violet: spiritual truth, higher consciousness. Amethyst, Garnet, Purple Ruby
Pink: stimulating and energizing. Rubellite, Tourmaline, Rose Beryl, Rose Quartz
Clear: pure energy, nurturing,loving, successful. Clear Quartz, Diamond
Silver: peaceful and gentle but great power too. Hematite
Gold: use when aiming high. Pyrite, Tiger's Eye
Questions? Feel free to post in the forum @ Laven's Witch Talk on The Chat Room Page. I'd be happy to answer your questions, especially if you are interested in how crystals/stones can help heal you and improve your your daily life.
Blessings,
LavenStar Raene
~NEW TO LAVEN'S LAIR~
DREAM AMULET
Would have also been a good item for my Magickal Charm Page, but I am seriously running out of room there!
This also shows you that Amulets do not have to be jewelry--they can be a charm bag that is worn on the body or in your pocket or purse for protection for example. This Amulet needs just to find it's home in your pillowcase. Each one hand made to order by me with herbs such as Raspberry Leaves, Calendula, Mimosa Flowers, Rosemary and a beautiful Amethyst (promotes intuitive dreams) from the mountains of NC.
Only $29
