Charms

Many of us today think of charms simply as small pieces of jewelry bought because they look attractive. The idea of the lucky charms is well known but few know much else of the history and symbolism of their brooch or bracelet. They're 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 or design of a charm usually indicates its intent. For early tribes 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. Ancient talismans were often inscribed with strange mystic symbols, representations of gemstones, animal fetishes, etc.

All these are still used today and charms with ancient history and unusual symbolism are preferred by some. Yet in the mass market most of us 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 dangling from a mobile cell phone!