Everyone can use a bit of luck in their life. Many people own good luck jewelry for personal, cultural, religious, spiritual, and superstitious reasons. There are strong connections and beliefs surrounding the benefits of wearing such jewelry. Nearly all good luck charms and lucky amulets can be worn as jewelry, used as home & office décor, and outdoor decorations to ward off evil.
Shopping for good luck jewelry can be an overwhelming process considering the wealth of options, coupled with the individual antiquity behind each one. Each piece comes with a unique story and serves a different purpose for the wearer.
So whether you are looking for a good luck necklace, a healing crystal for your office space, or an amulet with lineage to your cultural, religious, or ethnic background, this guide will go over everything there is to know to help with your search.
HISTORY OF good luck JEWELRY
It is hard to trace back to exactly where and when good luck jewelry and charms originated. Humans have been allured to charms, mineral rocks, and rituals to rationalize things they could not understand for a millennium. The earliest known finding of jewelry dates back to prehistory, over 40,000 years ago, among the Neanderthals living on historical European land. They repurposed animal teeth and seashells making them in to necklaces, known today as historical artifacts.
More recently, the ancient Egyptians are known to have put amulets, charms, and jewelry into the grave of their loved ones to bring them luck and protection in the afterlife. It was common practice to carry amulets and talismans with them and around their homes, as it was believed they would protect them against evil and bad spirits.
Historically, good luck jewelry was not as we think of it today; instead, it was traditionally in the form of features, bones, shells, and colored pebbles. Although the material and appearances have changed and evolved, they are still revered as good luck symbols, oftentimes fashion-esque good luck symbols.
In the more recent past, in the Neolithic times, it is said that hunters and gatherers routinely collected uniquely shaped stones to keep with them, as they believed they harbored protective energies strong enough to ward off evil.
DIFFERENT CULTURES/GROUPS and good luck JEWELRY
Good luck jewelry exists among all cultures all over the world, dating back to pre-history. Every culture has its superstitions to help them stay on the right side of fate. Wearing a particular piece of jewelry is one of many ways used among countless cultures, historic and modern, to display their belief in a good luck item.
Amulets, talismans, charms, stones, and crystals are equally as popular. Good luck jewelry is believed to invite good luck, bestow protection, fertility, fertility of crops, ward off evil, and much more.
ANCIENT ROME
The use of good luck jewelry was every day in ancient Rome, and they were known to warship amulets, pendants, and good luck charms, believing in the powerful energies they bestow.
Otherwise known as a wind chime, the tintinnabulum was a highly veered talisman the Romans would hang in their doorway or window. It was believed that the jingling sound it would create would ward off evil spirits and bring in good fortune to the home.
ITALY
Italian culture puts considerable emphases on the Italian emulate known as the cornicello. The cornicello derives from tribal traditions and ancient civilizations.
It is a twisted horn-shaped charm made of any metal. The belief is that they ward off the Evil Eye and bad spirits. Furthermore, the Cornicello is modeled after an eland horn to represent fertility, masculinity, and strength. In addition to being worn as jewelry, it is hung from the rear-view mirrors of cars and houses.
NATIVE AMERICAN
A dream catcher is known to be a good luck charm among Native American tribes. It can be traced back to the Ojibwe peoples, and over time, it was adopted from other tribes and even nations.
The dream catcher can be traced back to the 1960s as a result of the Pan-Indian Movement. Dream catchers are hung over the bed as talismans to prevent sleeping children from having nightmares.
IRELAND
The Irish have long been believers of good luck jewelry, amulets, and talismans. The shamrock has been long coined the token of good luck among the Irish people.
It is believed that Saint Patrick, Ireland's patron saint, used it as a metaphor for the Christian Holy Trinity and to illustrate Christianity. The first known link between the shamrock and Saint Patrick was dated back to 1675 on the St Patrick's Coppers or Halfpennies.
Considering St. Patrick is Ireland's patron saint, the shamrock has grown to become a symbol of Ireland, so much so that the terms shamrock and Ireland have become synonymous.
JAPAN
The Maneki-Neko, meaning the "beckoning cat" or "welcoming cat," is a cat-like ornament appearing like the calico Japanese Bobtail, with origins in Japan. It is believed among the Japanese people that owning such an ornament will bring good luck and fortune
The Maneki-Neko was first dated back to 1852. In the 17th century, legend had it a poor monk living in Tokyo; although poor, he shared meals with his pet cat. During a storm, the cat noticed a hunter nearby and waved its paw to the hunter, inviting him to the temple, saving him from the lighting storm.
Since then, the Maneki-Neko is considered good luck and a protector from evil. The Maneki-Neko is a common amulet and is used as lucky decor in businesses and homes.
SAILORS AT SEA
Sailing at sea comes with inherent risks that can create psychological difficulties. To combat this, sailors would bring on board with them amulets representing safety and protection from the extreme elements of the sea. Even more, they invite folklore and myths believing they help ward off bad luck.
Contrary to popular belief about the black cat, sailors believed that adopting a black cat for the ship would encourage good luck and safety, believing their innate powers can protect the vessel from dangerous weather.
Additionally, the sailors would invite a Klabautermann as protection, a mythical creature of folklore that lives in the waters and rescues sailors who fall overboard. It embodies protective energies and wards off bad luck at sea. The Klabautermann can be dated back to old Germanic mythology.
WHY DO PEOPLE choose to wear good luck JEWELRY?
There are a myriad of reasons why people might wear good luck jewelry. Let's discuss them below.
KEEP THEM SAFE
The desire to feel safe is universally innate to all humans. Whether at home, traveling, or participating in a social activity, humans seek safety.
Throughout history, the feeling of safety has been sought out through good luck jewelry, superstitious rituals, and keeping with them an amulet-like charm for protection from evil or adverse powers such as the Evil Eye.
Good luck jewelry has become synonymous with safety and well-being.
BRING THEM GOOD LUCK
Seeking good luck is a phenomenon that can be dated back to ancient civilizations. It is a common belief that most good things in life are attributes of good luck.
One way to ensure a high probability of receiving good luck is to obtain and carry a lucky charm or lucky jewelry. Furthermore, good luck jewelry wards off feelings of inadequacy, thus promoting motivation to take more risks in life. It is a common belief that wearing artifacts of good luck protects us from failure.
Consider professional athletes and the rituals they exercise to preserve their success and bring good luck. Michael Jordan wore college shorts under his Bulls shorts for all of his NBA games as he considered them to be his good luck charm throughout his entire career.
HEALING POWERS OF LUCKY PENDANTS
Lucky pendants, also known as spiritual pendants or reiki pendants, are designed and crafted to provide healing powers to the wearer. The stones and crystals used are said to possess healing powers to enhance the natural healing process further.
Healing crystals interact with the body’s energy source, otherwise known as chakra, and can reduce stress while improving clarity.
Traditional use of such pendants would include holding them near one’s body or wearing it as a piece of jewelry for continuous interaction.
RELIGIOUS REASONS
Superstition is thought to be a variation of a religious belief. The efficacy of the individual's prayer for a desirable life often includes the combined belief in good luck charms.
Jewelry, talismans, amulets, and even tattoos are frequently associated with religious faith and are also a form of religious expression.
Many charms and pendants are representative of a specific God or Saint and are used to protect the wearer during travels and times of uncertainty.
WHERE CAN YOU FIND/PURCHASE good luck JEWELRY?
Good luck jewelry gained popularity in ancient civilization and has maintained admiration through current society. Because of its remarkable popularity, consumers have an array of options in where to make a purchase.
LOCAL JEWELERS
Traditionally, visiting your local jeweler was the only option for consumers to purchase good luck jewelry. While there are many other alternatives presently, local jewelers are one of the best options.
We often seek a physical and emotional connection when purchasing jewelry, and the most reliable means to do this is to buy it physically. Furthermore, dealers are experts in good luck jewelry with they have knowledge and expertise that may be difficult to gain online.
LOCAL CRAFT FAIRS
Many communities hold bazaars and support-local events designed to recognize local solopreneur, artists, and businesses. If consumers look for good luck charms on a budget or unique characteristics not found elsewhere, a local craft fair is an excellent alternative to finding unique pieces.
Often, handmade crafts and jewelry are the most sought out items because of their individual and vintage characteristics. Shopping for vintage jewelry can be daunting if you're seeking authentic pieces. For guidance on what to look for, see our guide for a comprehensive breakdown.
ONLINE JEWELERS
Considering the rise of the Internet and increased globalization, society has progressively become accustomed to e-commerce and has benefited from the diversity of options. Online jewelers have gradually become the go-to option for consumers, since they often have a more extensive catalog of options to cater to a global consumer base.
Ordering online has become a societal norm and is fueled by the consumer’s preference for more options from many markets worldwide.
ETSY
Etsy is an online marketplace designed for sellers to sell their handmade and vintage items. Many sellers on the platform sell handmade jewelry that offers high-quality craftsmanship, and because they are handmade, they offer unique and distinct beauty. Good luck jewelry is commonly a successful seller on Etsy.
WHEN TRAVELING
One of the most common practices of traveling is purchasing local artifacts and hand-made jewelry for souvenirs. You can almost always find local gift shops specializing in local jewelry, offering travelers unique options respecting the local culture and traditions. Please read our complete guide to traveling with jewelry.
HANDMADE
Whether you make it yourself or find a local artist, wearing hand-made good luck jewelry can be an excellent option. Since hand-made jewelry tends to be individually crafted, owning a piece will offer a precisely unique appearance coupled with its intended purpose. Must read: 10 Things To Know About Handmade Jewelry.
GENERATIONAL HAND DOWN
Arguably one of the most sentimental options, generational hand-downs carry their intended meaning coupled with their sentimental value. For centuries, people believe that handed-down jewelry comes with inherent luck and protection from generations of families who previously owned the piece.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT types of good luck JEWELRY?
Much like everything else, good luck jewelry is available in a variety of different types and styles.
NECKLACES
Among the most popular of all good luck jewelry, necklaces are the most sought out and come in diverse styles. One of the most common gift ideas tends to be lucky birthstone name necklaces.
Women's Good Luck Necklaces
Aside from the fashionable aspect of women’s jewelry, there is often a sentimental component associated with its value. Necklaces being malleable in how their design, can be made with any style in mind, including family birthstones, lucky crystals, religious charms, amulets, and healing stones.
To find the perfect gift idea for women who love good luck necklaces, see our 25 Gift Ideas To Honor Moms.
Men's Good Luck Necklaces
Men's necklaces are the most popular male accessories. Designed with a slight masculine touch, they are designed with the same intent as women's and can include good lucky crystals, stones, amulets, and charms.
To find the perfect fit idea for men who love good luck necklaces, see our 25 Gift Ideas For Dad.
Religious Good Luck Necklaces
Whether it is a Hamsa necklace, a gold cross, or a taweez necklace, religious expression has consistently been demonstrated through jewelry.
Necklaces and chains are among the most commonly worn pieces of jewelry throughout the world.
RINGS
Rings are often associated with romantic relationships and marriage. It is customary to wear an engagement and wedding ring on the "ring finger" of the left hand in many cultures.
Albeit, rings can symbolize so much more than this. Aside from fashionable reasons, they are often worn to represent one's belief in good luck and protection.
It is also essential to know that ring placement plays a part in the mystical powers of the ring. For example, if a ring is worn on a man's thumb, it represents self-assertion and willpower.
BRACELETS
Bracelets are also among the more popular pieces of jewelry; the most popular styles come down to two; feng shui, and Pi-Xui.
Feng Shui Bracelets
The Feng shui bracelet is made up of uniquely specific crystals that are believed to manifest good luck, fortune, and good karma in one's life. It is believed to use its energy and properties to create a positive aura in the wearer's life to aid in creating good luck.
The most traditional Feng shui bracelets are made of obsidian crystal known for their grounding and protection properties.
Pi-Xui Bracelets
The Pi-Xui bracelet is unique in how it should be worn. The bracelet is best worn on the left hand, as the left hand attracts wealth and luck, where the right hand is known to give wealth and luck away to other people.
Wearing a double-stranded Pi-Xui bracelet will double the effect of luck it can attract.
KEYCHAINS
Key chains are most commonly referred to as souvenirs. They are a great accessory that can be used to hold good luck charms that have meaning.
Key chains are more than just style used as an accessory or home decor; they are a great alternative to traditional jewelry for anyone who prefers something less subtle.
They can be hung in your home, on the rear-view mirror of your vehicle, and gifted out. They are also a common choice to display religious beliefs by choosing sacred amulets and pendants.
EARRINGS
Earrings being fashionable and sentimental accessories for both men and women alike, have been a sought-out accessory throughout history. With popularity originating from ancient Asia over 7000 years ago, they eventually grew into prominence as a go-to accessory worldwide in respective cultures.
Earrings can be used as a form of fashion expression, religious expression, superstitious beliefs, and much more. Historically, earrings, or pierced ears, represented family dynamics, so it was not always about ideological expression or customary reasons.
Shortly after the renaissance, pierced ears were common on young boys of single mothers, or one piercing on the right ear would represent the only son in the family. As can be learned here, pierced ears and earrings have long withstood change and transformation but have consistently stood for expression of some sort.
WHAT TYPES OF THINGS ARE CONSIDERED good luck TO WEAR ON JEWELRY?
There are certain additions to good luck jewelry that may enhance the good luck nature or serve as the good luck symbol.
CRYSTALS
Crystals have been used for thousands of years from cultures all over the world. They are revered as curators of good luck, promoters of healing, protection, and a balanced mind.
The interest in good luck crystals continues to grow in popularity, particularly among the spiritual and yoga community. They’ve grown to become a pillar in the space of home & office décor, clothing accessories, and gift ideas.
Some of these lucky crystals include amethyst, citrine, pyrite, sapphire and more. Let's take a look at some of the more popular crystals below.
Tiger's Eye
Also know as the shapeshifter, the tiger’s eye is a chatoyant gemstone and is part of the quartz group, made up of metamorphic rock. This gemstone is among the more popular, attracting the Eye of consumers due to its silky touch and opaque transparency.
Tiger's Eye can be translated to 'self-confidence & inner strength', promoting the wearer to embrace such internal feelings. This standout gemstone is of a polychromatic brown and black hue, giving off an ambiance of fearless power and hardened strength.
Furthermore, the tiger’s eye offers a multitude of attractive healing properties. Among the more valued is its power to promote the balance of physical and emotional well-being.
Amethyst
This eye-catching crystal is the most popular variety of quartz crystals and is considered the most powerful and protective. Even more compelling is its exterior beauty.
It comes with many hues of violet and purple, promoting a feeling of calmness while exuding a spiritual meaning of healing and wisdom. Initial discovery is dated back to 25,000 BC where the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians were drawn to its profound healing powers and health promotion.
It has been claimed that this crystal offers strong healing properties, including; enhancing the immune system, improving the endocrine system, promoting digesting health, regulating hormones, and reducing headaches. This striking crystal is common in good luck jewelry, home & office décor and makes for a perfect gift.
Rose Quartz
Rose Quartz is a unique variant of the quart family with a distinct rose red hue. The standout color is known to be from trace amounts of titanium, iron, or magnesium in the material.
It is said to date back as far as 7000 BC, and its original claim to fame was for its powerful cosmetic properties. The ancient Egyptian and Roman women applied rose quartz facemasks as a part of their daily cosmetic routine.
The rose quartz is renowned as the stone of unconditional love and is believed to emit love, joy, and emotional healing energies. Presently, this crystal is used as an accessory in jewelry, for home & office décor, and meditation.
STONES
Stones are also added to good luck jewelry as a way to further the positive good nature of the jewelry as well as add a splash of color.
JADE
Jade also known as the stone of luck and happiness, is believed to carry powerful properties that promote positive energy and aid in physical and emotional healing. This stone is sought out in Chinese culture and is regarded as an imperial gem held with the highest esteem.
With traces back to Eastern civilizations, the Jade is held in high esteem among the Chinese culture. The healing properties of Jade are associated with its power to aid in healing organs such as the spleen, kidney, and bladder.
It is also associated with attracting good luck and warding off the Evil Eye. In the spiritual realm, it is believed that Jade promotes happiness and intense interpersonal relationships.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a charming opaque stone with a blue-green hue. This stone has been revered for centuries in many cultures. It is thought to be the holy stone that brings upon good fortune. One of the oldest healing stones, the turquoise, can be dated back to 6000 BC in ancient Egypt, where they could cover the grave of a loved one with turquoise-like finishing.
More recently, the turquoise stone is associated with the Native American culture, where it is commonly used to create amulets, talismans, and traditional jewelry. Considering it is also known as a throat chakra stone, the turquoise is believed to aid in the healing of respiratory issues.
It also provides a host of mental healing such as; positive thinking, creativity, empathy, clarity, and intuition. The turquoise is commonly worn in a ring, necklace, and clothing accessories such as belts.
Adding a stone to a necklace is an elegant style that is traditionally thought of as a gift. Styles such as this one can be made to match one’s stone birth color with their name, to personalize a lucky piece of jewelry.
NUMBERS, SYMBOLS, ETC.
In addition to crystals and stones, there is a number of numbers, symbols, etc. that are widely acknowledged as being 'lucky' to the wearer.
Rabbit's Foot
Otherwise known as a token of good luck, a rabbit's foot is a common good luck symbol worldwide. A rabbit's foot amulet is well regarded as a token of good luck in many cultures, most often associated with cultures in Europe, Africa, China, North America, and South America.
There are many variations of the superstitions belief behind the rabbit's foot, the most common being that the donor rabbit must have been killed in a specific place using a particular method or by a person possessing a particular attribute.
Bearing in mind, these prerequisites are not obligatory; instead, they are only valid among a small margin of cultures. A rabbit's foot can be worn on a keychain, as a pendant on a necklace, or hung in your home for good luck.
Horseshoe
Arguably, one of the most known among all good luck charms is the horseshoe. With a u-shaped appearance, they are often seen hanging in the entrance of a home, and traditionally, they were gifted to newlyweds to bring upon good luck and protection.
According to ancient folklore, around 400 BC, the horseshoe was used by Celtic tribes in Northern Europe and the British Isles as protection to ward off elves and goblins that lived in the woods.
In modern-day times, they are more commonly seen as jewelry, albeit with the same belief that they will ward off bad luck and manifest good luck. This standout symbol can be worn on a necklace, ring, bracelet, earrings, and as a charm used as décor in your home.
Wishbone
The wishbone is most commonly associated with memories of family holidays deciding who gets to break the furcula, or wishbone, as we know it.
Without truly understanding the meaning or origins behind this annual tradition, it is believed that the person with the most extended broken piece will have their silent wish granted and extra good luck.
This was another folklore tale with roots in historical cultures and traditions when people believed that merely touching this bone would invite good luck. Apart from breaking the bone for good luck, it is used as good luck jewelry worn in a necklace, bracelet, earrings, and ring.
No. 7
The number seven is notable in many areas of life; every calendar week as seven days, the rainbow represents seven of the most common colors, the globe is broken up into seven continents, there are seven wonders of the world, and the seven deadly sins, among many others.
The Christian faith believes that it took God 6 days to make the world and rested on the 7th day. In the Muslim faith, during the Mecca pilgrimage, Muslims walk around the Kaaba seven times. In Judaism, it is the belief that there are seven heavens.
Whether no.7 is a lucky number or has gained superstition prominence due to its widespread use, many cultures and people around the globe believe in its power to manifest good luck. No.7 is most commonly seen as an accessory piece to a necklace as well as a ring.
No. 8
Gaining acknowledgment as the luckiest number in the Chinese culture, no. 8 has been revered as good luck and a curator of wealth for centuries. The Mandarin word for 8 is ‘ba,’ which sounds like the word ‘fa,’ which translates to prosperity or fortune in Mandarin.
This similarity strengthens the belief that no. 8 has inherent good luck. Furthermore, considering no.8 resembles the Greek symbol for infinity, it upholds the idea that no.8 hosts powerful properties that promote luck and wealth.
It is common for Chinese people to seek out no. 8 when buying a home, getting a vehicle license plate, and even a new phone number. Despite the cost potentially being higher, having this number attached to essential elements of their life is worth it. As for accessories, no.8 is commonly seen on necklaces, rings, and bracelets.
Lucky Pennies
According to ancient theories, people generally believed that picking up a penny brings them good luck. As the saying goes, “Find a penny, pick it up. All-day long, you’ll have good luck.”
In numerous modern cultures, picking up a penny that appears heads up will grant the person good luck while warding off unfavorable luck. Traditional folklore says copper metal is a gift from God intended to ward off evil.
Lucky pennies have become a trendy pendant on a necklace and are worn for good luck.
RELIGIOUS GOOD LUCK SYMBOLS
In addition to crystals and stones, there is a number of numbers, symbols, etc. that are widely acknowledged as being 'lucky' to the wearer.
Hamsa
A palm-shaped amulet prevalent throughout the Middle East and North Africa, is a talisman of protection and represents power and strength. The hand of Hamsa is typically an open right hand and is used in jewelry designs, home décor, and wall hangings. The primary use of the Hamsa is to protect its owners from the 'Ayin Hara,' also known as 'The Evil Eye.'
The Hamsa was widely respected and trusted in ancient Carthage (Tunisia), Morocco, and Mesopotamia (Iraq). In modern-day societies, although still a symbol of religious faith, it has become a trendy accessory and can be worn on a necklace, ring, earrings, and bracelet.
Additionally, it has become overtly trendy in popular culture, particularly among the spiritual community, with Hamsa jewelry being a staple piece.
Cross
The traditional symbol of the Christian religion, representing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, is a sign of the Christian faith. Originally known as a pagan symbol, the cross attained association with Christianity years after the reign of the pagan Emperor Constantine.
Christians commonly wear a cross and chain around their neck as a symbol of their Christian faith. A cross is often used as home décor among the Christian community.
Additional standard jewelry pieces include rings, bracelets, earrings, and amulets.
Patron Saints Medallions
Saint medals being among the most popular patron saint jewelry pieces. The Catholic faith uses medallion pendants to represent all the prominent Saints who played an integral role in the religion.
- St. Benedict: founder of the Benectine monastery at Monte Cassino and considered the father of monasticism in the West.
- St. Anthony: a Portuguese priest and Franciscan friar who was renowned as a teacher and preacher.
- St. Jude: medal of St. Jude invokes Judas Thaddeus, one of the original 12 apostles to Jesus.
- St. Joseph: foster father of Jesus and the husband of Mary.
- St. Christopher: patron saint of travelers and transportation.
- St. Gerard: benefactor of mothers, children, and childbirth.
- St. Peregrine: patron saint of people suffering with fatal and incurable diseases.
The wearers of popular saints medals represent their Christian faith and ideology. They are most commonly worn as a necklace around the neck.
Buddha
The Buddha statue is a well-known and recognized representative symbol of the Buddhist religion. With origins from across Asia, the Buddha statue symbolizes the life of Gautama Buddha, a Sramana from Ancient India and the founder of the Buddhist religion. This symbol has evolved to adopt many different meanings and representations.
In Western society, the Buddha is revered as a symbol of meditation. Although the Buddha statue can vary in artistic design, they are all relatively similar. The most common in Western Society being the Mediated Buddha which represents peace, calm, and serenity.
The Buddha symbol has become one of the trendy jewelry pieces and is commonly seen on necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets.
Christian Fish Symbol
Christian Fish Symbol, also known as Ichthys, is a Greek word that translates to the word fish—being an ancient symbol used by Christians in the Roman Empire to avoid persecution because it was illegal to identify as Christian.
Subsequently, Christians were forced to worship in secrecy, thus developing artwork and symbols as a form of communication. Ichthys is an acronym for IXOYE, meaning "Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior."
Over time, the fish symbol has become a representation of the Christian faith commonly worn on a necklace.
WISHING YOU good luck ALWAYS
Good luck jewelry has been a sought out accessory for thousands of years, recorded back to ancient civilizations. With countless cultures honoring unique talismans, amulets, charms, crystals, stones, and even mythical folklore, there is a widespread belief in the powerful energies they exude.
Aside from the appealing aesthetic of many pieces, the correlations between mental and physical transformation and good lucky jewelry are undoubtedly authentic and can justify such purchases. For people who believe in the transferred energy of a lucky charm, the power and energy bestowed in them can be a helpful aide in adopting a more positive and courageous outlook to your life.
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August 17, 2021 by Conor Daniels