Amulets, Part Two: To give or receive

Though nearly anything could be an amulet, some pieces have more inherent symbolism. The meaning may be known only to you, or a recognized glyph.

Amulets are rarely mass-produced big-brand items. The singularity of pendants makes them perfect for the purpose. They are usually of noble metals, meant to withstand constant wear.

The symbol may be known only to you, or read easily by others. Here are a selection of amulets whose meanings are evident.

One type of talisman is called apotropaic, having or bringing good fortune, protection or luck.

The eye is a symbol of protection, given to ward off any malevolent gaze. This Catherine Michaels pendant combines black and yellow 14k gold, with a diamond and sapphire-accented eye, strung on a 32-inch braided linen cord strung with gold beads. Price, $750 from Ylang23.

The Compass Rose symbolizes finding and keeping one's bearings. The Compass Company's 14K gold pendant with sapphire and working 14mm compass has presence on its own or layers prettily with other necklaces. Price, $374.

The notion of infinity is found across times and cultures, often represented by the knot motif, which carries both spiritual and emotional meaning.

Diane von Furstenberg for H. Stern

18k Love Knot, a Buddhist symbol of eternal love.

Price, $1,500 for pendant only.

Here's a Celtic version, the Trinity Knot, also referred to as the Mystic Knot. This symbol, traced to 450 A.D., symbolizes the timeless nature of spirit, the infinite cycles of life and rebirth. 18k quadruple Trinity Knot pendant, price, $450 from Liffey Gold.

Pyrrha are Vancouver-based jewelers known for refined amulets in silver, bronze and 18k. For a woman celebrating a special birthday or life passage, I would choose this intaglio Athena, Goddess of Wisdom, in 18k gold-plated silver; price, $334, which includes an 18-inch chain.

Do you have a friend who has weathered a difficult year?

From Pyrrha's Talisman collection, a seal of an angel sitting beneath an anchor with the French inscription, Hope Remains, Even in the Storm. Available in chain lengths from 16 to 22 inches, and in silver or bronze; price, $136.

The Tsuba is a Japanese symbol of courage, fidelity and diligence, represented in this graceful adaptation of a Samurai shield. Price (for pendant only), $935 from KA Gold Jewelry.


Glamourous amulet, say that fast five times.


Ten Thousand Things turquoise pendant on 20-inch Noguchi chain, price $2, 555 from Ylang23. Turquoise symbolizes purity in the East, and adoration in Europeans cultures. (Leah gave Shylock a turquoise ring for this reason in The Merchant of Venice.)


Chinese love symbol necklace in diamond (.25ct tw), silver and gold vermeil, on sale from Ross Simons' price, $162. At this price, you could give an unexpectedly glittering gift.



Amulets may also signify your heritage.

Abraxas Rex 18k rose gold six-pointed star with diamond, price, $1,875 from Barney's.

St. Brigid was born in fifth-century Ireland, a saint who was at least as interested in farming and domestic matters as she was in prayer.

This gold cross in the form of rushes is traditionally hung in Irish homes on her day, February 1. Price, $499 in 18k gold, from Allcladdagh Irish Jewelers.

Antique Hindu goddess amulet on 20-inch silver chain; price, $185 from Nomad's Journey.


The pieces I've shown today have explicit symbolism, but many of you have private amulets, such as a silver bracelet or special necklace. Whether the meaning is available to all or only to you, amulets are good for body and soul. Life, luck, faith, roots.

They need not be precious, only durable, so that their fond and hopeful sentiment prevails.