Protection and healing

Anhänger mit Skarabäuskörper und offenen Flügeln aus Gold
Elisabeth Trewkow, Brosche, Köln, um 1965 (Photo: © DetlefSchumacher.com)

Amulets are closely linked to the origins of jewelry history. They have been documented in various cultures and societies around the world since early history. When people began to wear jewelry made of shells, bones and other natural materials, they did so not only to beautify their bodies or to display their rank and affiliations, but also for spiritual reasons. The longing for happiness, health and protection from evil and malevolent forces gave rise to people's trust in the magical powers of certain objects, substances and symbols. In order to benefit from their powers, they were worn close to the body. In addition to their decorative function, amulets thus have a deep symbolic meaning that is inextricably linked to the belief systems and world views of their wearers.

Especially before the development of modern natural sciences, the belief in supernatural powers determined people's lives and even the Catholic Church, which fundamentally rejected the pagan character of amulets, was powerless against their spread. Even today, personal protective and lucky charms are still highly valued and their wearers attribute many different properties to them.