Charms

Many people today thinks of charms simply as small pieces of jewelry that they buy simply because they look attractive. Most people know of lucky charms but probably little else of the history and symbolism of their brooch or bracelet. They are as likely to buy something depicting their hobby, political allegiance or latest vacation as an ancient symbol of power.

Nothing wrong with that of course. However charms become far more interesting if you know something about their origin and purpose. Where did they come from and what do they mean?

What Are Charms?

The modern usage of the word charm covers a varge variety of items that have gone by different names in the past - talismans, amulets, totem symbols, etc. Even the "lucky mascot" is in essence a charm. Today the most common usage of the word is probably in the sense of the Italian charm bracelet.

The word charm itself reveals the magical and mystical connotations. It derives ultimately from the Latin carmen - a song or incantation. In other words, a spell. A charm can be thought of as essentially a container for some form of spell.

The shape of a charm usually indicates its intent. For early peoples an animal charm could be an attempt to invoke the creature's strength - or simply to to ensure that the hunt was successful. Hearts have always been associated with love. Symbols of luck such as horseshoes are often produced in miniature.

Modern Charms

Charms have always reflected the society in which they were used. People have used talismans inscribed with mystic symbols, symbolic gemstones, animal fetishes, etc.

All these are still used by people today and charms with ancient history and symbolism are preferred by some. Yet in the mass market most people treat charms simply as another piece of jewelry. Thus the symbolism if it exists is often ignored, which I find a shame.

The popularity of charms has led to the amusingly incongruous sight of ancient mystical signs such as the Eye of Horus danging from a mobile cell phone!