Making and Using Talismans and Amulets

Charms That Banish Evil, Bring Good Luck, Psychic Ability

by Joy Richardson

Talismans and amulets are considered magical items by some people. They believe the items can offer protection, influence, and bring about changes in bad situations.

Triskele Amulet from Wren's Grove

People carry or wear talismans and amulets for a variety of  purposes. For some, it's the hope of bringing about change, for others it's the belief that magical items can provide protection. Talismans and amulets can be carried on the person or they can be put in an appropriate place, such as on a desk, or under a pillow.

A talisman or amulet can be made for any reason, though commonly they are used for such purposes as stimulating creativity, increasing prosperity, expanding psychic receptivity, and overcoming problems.

The difference between a talisman and amulet is simple. A talisman


is a natural object that is used in its natural state, such as a stone. An amulet is a specially created object that's crafted for a specific purpose.

Talismans Can Be Found or Bought

A talisman can be created from just about anything. Perhaps  the best-known talisman is the four-leaf clover. A found penny, picked up for good luck, is another well-known example of a talisman. However, it's not necessary for a talisman to be found. Many people purchase tumbled gemstones and carry them in a pocket or small pouch. There are many metaphysical stores which sell crystals and tumbled gemstones. The stones are considered to be talismans, believed to impart the qualities of a specific stone to the user.

Amulets are Man-Made



Large Silver Ankh Pendant



On the other hand, an amulet is a man-made item. A stone set in a  ring or augmented by a magical symbol is an amulet. Like a talisman, an amulet can be made of almost anything and can range from the very simple to the complex.

An example of an amulet is the Egyptian ankh, drawn on a piece of paper and worn or carried. Supposedly, this amulet would impart the qualities of the ankh, such as life and vitality, to the user.
While there are many stores and on-line sites selling amulets, some people prefer to make their own.

Below is a list of commonly used colors for amulets, and the traditional meanings associated with the colors. The list may also be taken into account when considering what type of amulet to purchase.

• Black – protection, safety, grounding, wisdom, guiding, learning.
• Purple – spirituality, psychic ability
• Indigo – psychic ability, spiritual guides
• Blue – communication, willpower
• Green – prosperity, fertility, growth, money
• Yellow – pleasure, happiness, success
• Orange – creativity, self-expression
• Red – strength, vitality, passion
• Pink – romantic love, compassion, nurturing
• White – innocence, unity, manifestation, purity
• Violet – spirituality, connection to higher self