Viking necklace and Viking pendant

Viking necklace and Viking pendant

Viking necklaces were more than just jewelry for the Norse warriors. They were symbols of their faith, culture and status. The Vikings wore various pendants on their necklaces, which were often made of silver or bronze. They were worn by both men and women.

Which were among the most popular pendants worn by the Vikings?

- Thor's Hammer Mjölnir: This was the most powerful symbol of the Vikings, giving them protection and strength in battle. Thor's hammer was the weapon of Thor, the god of thunder, who fought against the giant serpent and other enemies. Many Vikings wore Mjölnir pendants as a sign of their loyalty to Thor and as a defense against evil spirits.

- Vegvisir: This was a magical symbol that signified the signpost or compass. It was supposed to protect the wearer from getting lost, especially at sea. Vegvisir consisted of eight rune staves arranged in a circle.

- Ravens: The ravens were the faithful companions of the god Odin, who sent them out every day to bring him news from the world. They were called Hugin and Munin, which meant thought and memory. Raven followers represented the intelligence and magic of the Vikings.

- Wolves: wolves were both friends and enemies of the Vikings. They worshipped the wolf Fenrir, who was the son of Loki and prophesied to devour Odin at Ragnarok. They also feared the wolves Skoll and Hati, who hunted the sun and moon. Wolves pendants showed the bravery and ferocity of the Vikings.

What materials were the chains made of?

For the Viking chains brass, bronze or silver was used to make chain links, which were then strung together to make a metal chain. But also leather straps or leather straps were also gladly taken, on which one then simply pushed the pendant. The pendants could also be made of silver, brass or bronze, but also bone or wood were possible.

Runes as pendants - very popular today

Runes are the ancient characters that were used between the 2nd and 14th centuries AD. They consisted of various symbols, each of which had a sound, a concept and a magical meaning. The runes were organized into different alphabets called Futhark, after the first six runes: Fehu, Uruz, Thurisaz, Ansuz, Raido and Kaunan. The Vikings believed that the runes were discovered by Odin, the supreme god of Norse mythology, when he hung himself on the world tree Yggdrasil and suffered for nine days.

The runes were used for various purposes. They were carved or engraved into stones, wood, metal or bone to leave messages, document events or honor the dead. These inscriptions were called rune stones. They were also used for oracles to ask the future or to receive divine advice. This was done by throwing small wooden sticks or stones with runes on them onto a cloth or skin and interpreting the patterns. They were also used for sorcery, to bring about protection, healing or curses. To do this, people painted or carved runes on their bodies, weapons or objects.

Viking runes are still a fascinating subject for many people today. They are often used as jewelry, tattoos or decorations. They are also still used for spiritual or esoteric practices. The runes are part of the cultural heritage of the Vikings and a testimony to their history and worldview.