I have researched talismans & amulets for many years, I have a fascination with symbols and the power they are given. A recent find in France has unearthed an Earth Mother charm used in fertility rites that is estimated to be around 25,000 years old. This is an indication that symbols have been used for as long as Gods have been worshipped.



Talismans and amulets are usually an item that is worn or carried, and is given some kind of function to perform. They can be made from virtually any material and be used for almost any purpose. For instance; a four-leaf clover to attract luck, a Chinese lucky coin to bring wealth or a piece of snowflake obsidian to repel negative influences.

The power given to an object can be entirely of personal choice or can use the principles of sympathetic magick, in other words, to use something that relates to or resembles the required outcome. You could find a stone that you like while walking and this might become your ?lucky stone?. Someone you care about may give you an item (ring, jewellery, photo etc) that suddenly holds power for you or you may use a more traditional form of amulet.

Traditional charms include; Rabbits foot (bad for the rabbit), the Crucifix, A piece of jade, garlic (to repel vampires and demons), Holy relics, dried flowers and herbs, metal talismans (often from ceremonial magick), astrological symbols, crystals, the Evil Eye, the pentagram (5 sided star, used for protection), the Star of David and countless thousands more.

A charm can be consecrated (purified and magically enhanced) using, the moon, salt or water, and it can be charged (given power) using spells, sunlight or other occult means. An amulet that works for one person may have no power for someone else. It is your belief that strengthens the item more that any other factor.

Another factor in an amulets potency is the use of symbols. If the amulet contains images or symbols that are old or ancient, and these symbols have been used by many people for long periods, this increases the power of the item. With so many people focusing their desires and wishes on the one image it eventually holds more power. Examples are, the pentagram (used in witchcraft) and the Egyptian Ankh (a symbol of long life).

The big question is, how or why does a talisman work? Mostly, a charm acts as a physical symbol of a desired outcome, function or goal. When you have a goal you focus on achieving it. Your mind sends out impulses or vibrations to the Universe, (God, if you like) and if your thoughts are strong and consistent enough, you will be answered. A talisman gives you a physical focus for this desire, something to touch, hold or look at.

This is why a charm will work for some, and not for others. Your belief, and the strength of that conviction are the most important factors. Quantum physics has shown us that human beings have some influence over the physical universe. You can actually alter an outcome by focusing on it. This is amazing, we now have evidence that you and I do have some power after all.