Throughout history mankind seems to have found some solace in lucky charms. These have been made out of many different materials and have taken many forms. Our first ancient ancestor to pick up a shiny pebble or pretty shell, who kept it, treasured it and began to believe it had meaning maybe luck, protection, fertility or good fortune started it all. As we grew to be able fashion metals and ceramics into shapes that we could thread on to necklaces, bracelets, anklets and headwear charms became part of our attire. Certain shapes and symbols developed to be universally known for their good luck.
The horseshoe is a powerful talisman. In days gone by horseshoes were nailed above a door frame to shield home dwellers from witches and Satan. Different regions have different beliefs to whether the shoe should be prongs up to keep the luck from pouring out or prongs down to keep the evil out. It is up to you...
Elephants are thought to be lucky because of their association with the Hindu God of Wisdom Ganesh. It is important that you choose one with a raised trunk to stop the luck running out.
The symbol of Buddha is a Chinese symbol of good luck if you rub his belly your chances of good fortune.
Celtic Symbols are found in the Four Leaf Clover where each leaf represents hope, faith, luck and love. Welsh love spoons with a variety of knots symbolising Faith, Love, Marriage and Health are made of wood and metal.
Eggs are symbols of life, hope, prosperity and renewal in the Russian culture which gave rise to the popularity of the beautiful and intricate Faberge Eggs which were originally worn on a charm bracelet by Czarina Alexandra the wife of Czar Nicholas the second.
The lucky star is an enduring sign of good luck.The Pole Star is a focal point in many cultures and this makes the star a symbol against evil and misfortune world wide.
Keys are attributed to both locking danger out and keeping prosperity in. They are also thought to be able to 'open the door' to new and exciting stages of life such as the years 18 and 21, doorways to adulthood.
Wishbones are pulled apart after a Sunday roast by greasy, little fingers in many families since the 4th century. They are also thought of as symbols which would catch your dreams, bring good luck and make wishes come true.
I hope you have enjoyed this little insight into some lucky symbols and charms. With the world's rich tapestry of different cultures and beliefs there are so many to choose. It might all be poppycock, but I think there are very few people who don't find themselves believing a little grain of superstition at some points in their lives.