Unlocking the Norse mysteries: exploring key symbols in Viking jewellery.
1
Viking jewelry is a treasure trove of symbols that tell stories of Norse mythology, spirituality and cultural identity. In this article, we embark on a journey through the complex world of Viking jewellery, uncovering the meaning behind the key symbols that adorned the necks, wrists and fingers of the ancient Norse people.
- Mjolnir (Thor’s hammer): One of the most iconic symbols in Viking jewelry is Mjolnir, the hammer of the thunder god Thor. Representing strength, protection, and the power to ward off evil, the Mjolnir pendant was worn as a symbol of allegiance to Thor and an amulet of strength for the wearer.
- Vulcanut: Valknut, a symbol of three intertwined triangles, is often associated with the god Odin. Also known as the “Knot of the Fallen”, it is believed to symbolize the interconnectedness between life, death, and the afterlife. Viking warriors wore valknut as a symbol of Odin’s protection and guidance in battle.
- Yggdrasil (World Tree): Yggdrasil, the World Tree, is a central element in Norse cosmology. Symbolizing the interconnectedness of all living things, Yggdrasil often appears in Viking jewelry as a representation of cosmic order and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
- Runes: Viking jewelry often displayed runic inscriptions, using the runic alphabet known as futhark. Runes had magical and divine significance, and their inclusion in jewelry was believed to symbolize protection, guidance, or personal empowerment.
- Viking ship: The Viking ship, a symbol of exploration and adventure, was often depicted in jewellery. It represents the seafaring skills of the Vikings, their voyages of discovery, and the importance of ships in both practical and symbolic aspects of their lives.
- Wolf and Fenrir: Wolves were revered in Norse mythology, and their association with strength and loyalty made them popular symbols in Viking jewellery. Fenrir, the demonic wolf, was a powerful and fearsome figure, symbolizing chaos and the unpredictable forces of nature.
- Helm of Awe (Ægishjálmr): The Helm of Awe, a circular symbol with eight arms flaring outward, is believed to provide protection and strike fear into one’s enemies. Warriors wore this symbol on their foreheads or carved it on their shields for spiritual strength and protection in battle.
- celtic knots: The intricate Celtic knot, although not specific to Viking culture, found its way into Norse art and jewellery. These endless knots symbolize the interconnectedness of life, love and eternity, reflecting the cyclical nature of existence.
- Gungnir (Odin’s spear): Gungnir, the magical spear wielded by Odin, is a symbol of divine power, wisdom, and victory. Pendants depicting Gungnir were worn by those seeking Odin’s guidance, protection, and favor in times of conflict.
- crows: Ravens, especially the two ravens who accompanied Odin, Huginn (thought) and Muninn (memory), were revered in Viking culture. Raven symbols in jewelry reflect Odin’s presence, wisdom, and the connection between the divine and mortal realms.
Norse jewelery serves as a solid link to the spiritual beliefs, mythological narratives and cultural identity of the Norse people. Each symbol engraved or chiseled into these ancient artifacts tells the story of the Vikings’ reverence for the gods, their connection with nature, and the warrior ethos that defined their way of life. As we delve into the intricacies of Viking jewelry, we gain a deeper understanding of the deep symbolism that adorned the Norse people, and leaves a lasting legacy that transcends time. Viking Jewelry for Sale is a popular gift for any celebration.
top of form