Amulets and Talismans

 

Recently, I had a question about Amulets & Talismans, asking what the difference is between the two and how we use them.  I thought it was a really excellent question, and wanted to dig into it a bit with all of you today.

Let's start with Amulets.  One of the biggest differences between Amulets and Talismans is that amulets are typically used for protection or to ward off energy whereas Talismans are typically crafted to bring energy towards you.  I have noticed some other traditions using them for other purposes, such as to attract luck, etc.  However, generally, when I see them used for this purpose, I've noticed that protection remains a metaphysical property associated with what they are using.  I was also taught that it is preferable when creating an amulet to make it out of material from nature whenever possible.  

For example, let’s look at a Hag Stone.  A Hag Stone is a stone that you find that has a naturally occurring hole in the center of it.  Many times, if we find one of these, we will find some way to string it and wear it about our neck as an Amulet.  Hag Stones can be used for their energy of new beginnings and luck, among others; however, they are also known for their energy of protection.

When crafting an amulet, you want to be sure to consider the energetic properties of the items you are using. You also want to be sure to cleanse and consecrate them as yours before using them. Once you have done that, you want to look into a way to make your creation wearable.  When doing this, try to use natural products whenever possible.  Look at items that can enhance the energy of what you are trying to create.   If you are working with a type of wood, you can carve it if you wish, or even use natural paints to infuse it with additional magick.

Talismans are typically a combination of one or more items, specifically put together to draw a particular type of energy to you.  It is more common to find them crafted out of a wide variety of materials, including natural materials. One example of a typical talisman you may see is an inscribed metal disc on a chain, decorated with stones to draw the desired type of energy.  These not only need to be cleansed and consecrated, but you also need to charge these with your intent.  For those of you that wear pentagrams around your neck, that's a great example of a Talisman.

I hope this helps!

Much Love and Many Blessings,

Jasmeine Moonsong