Do you believe in good luck?
Many do, and for centuries, people from all over the world have been using special objects, animals and symbols to protect themselves from harm, increase their wealth and fortune and make their wishes come true. These “good luck” charms often tie into a country’s history in some way and many are still used today.
We have complied a list of the 18 most interesting good luck charms used across the world. Have a look!
ACORNS (ENGLAND)
Acorns are thought to be a symbol of luck, prosperity and power in England. Dry acorns were carried by the English during the Norman Conquest to protect themselves.
BATS (CHINA)
Even though bats may make you think of Halloween and horror movies, bats are often worn as lucky charms in China. Thought to ward off evil, bats are considered to be a symbol of happiness and good fortune.
CARP SCALES (POLAND / AUSTRIA / CROATIA)
In many central European countries, a traditional Christmas meal contains a lot of carp. Once the meal is over, people often keep the carp scales in their wallets until the following Christmas Eve for good luck.
DOLPHINS (ROME)
Dolphins are considered a symbol of protection and its image is said to bring good luck. Ancient sailors who spent months away at sea found the sight of dolphins swimming near their ships was the first sign that land was near.
ELEPHANTS (INDIA)
A symbol of wisdom, stability and longevity, elephants are considered extremely lucky in India, due to their intelligence and long lives. In fact, one of the best known Hindu deities is the elephant-headed Ganesh, who removes obstacles and brings luck.
FOUR LEAF CLOVER (IRELAND)
Popular on St Patrick’s Day, the four-leaf clover is a symbol for good luck in Ireland, especially since four-leaf clovers are not as common or easy to find as the three lead clovers. It is believed that the four leaves represent the Holy Trinity.
GRIS-GRIS (REPUBLIC OF GHANA)
Gris-Gris are small bags filled with 4 different elements: salt, incense, water and fire, which is represented by a candle flame. They originated in Ghana and have since migrated to other parts of the world. They are kept to ward off evil and maintain good luck.
HAMSA (ISRAEL / MIDDLE EAST)
Drawn from ancient Mesopotamian culture, the hand-shaped Hamsa charm is often used to decorate homes, office and public spaces or worn as an amulet. This symbol is thought to ward off the evil eye and encourage good luck.
JADE (CHINA)
Used in Feng Sui for centuries, Jade is used to create a feeling of harmony and balance. It is also used for protection and good luck. Charms, amulets and jewelry made from jade is used for various purposes – from attracting wealth and good fortune.
KEYS (WORDLWIDE)
Keys have been considered a symbol of success and fortune around the world. For instance, Jewish midwives used to give keys to a woman giving birth to ensure safe delivery of the baby. In Eastern Europe, it was believed that hanging a key upside down on the wall over the bed prevented bad dreams.
LADDERS (ANCIENT EGYPT)
In Acient Eqypt, ladders were placed in tombs to help the souls of dead ascend to the heavenly afterlife. This is probably why they were seen as some as a symbol of good luck and fortune.
MANEKI-NEKO (JAPAN)
Maneki-Neko are porcelain cat figures that are displayed at the entrances of businesses in Japan. These beckoning cats are thought to bring business fortune and success. They come in different sizes and colours, which represent a different kind of wealth. For instance, gold means wealth and black wards off evil.
NAZAR (TURKEY / GREECE / INDIA)
Nazar is handmade with blue, white and black glass and are thought to protect one from the evil eye or from people without good intentions. Believed to originate in Turkey, these good luck charms are seen across many countries and can be worn as amulets or used to decorates one’s house or business.
PIGS (GERMANY)
“Glücksschwein” is a German expression that translates to “lucky pig”. In Germany, pigs are thought to bring good luck and wealth. They are also associated with fertility. They are often found in candy, shaped as treats and featured on New Year’s cards.
RABBIT’S FOOT (NORTH AMERICA / BRITAIN)
A rabbit’s foot is one of the few good luck charms that is recognized in many countries, such as England, Spain, United States and more. The idea originates from the Celtics who believed that since rabbits lived so deep underground, they had the ability to speak to spirts in the underworld. Nowadays, it is considered lucky to carry a rabbit’s foot.
SCARABS (EGYPT)
Dating back as early as 2345 B.C. , the scarab was an extremely sacred symbol to the Ancient Egyptians. It represented new creation, eternal life, protected against evil and harnessed good luck. Scarab amulets were worn as jewellry, used as seals and were even buried with mummies.
TUMI (PERU)
A tumi is a ceremonial axe from Peru, often hung on walls and doors to bring good luck. Once used for religious sacrifices and ritual ceremonies, it is now the national symbol of Peru.
WORRY DOLLS (GUATEMALA)
Worry dolls in Guatemala are used to help someone fall asleep, especially popular with children or those who struggle to fall asleep at night. The person holds the doll when they get into bed and tell it their troubles. The worries are then passed from the person to the doll, giving the person a good night’s sleep.
So there you have it – a list of 18 unique and interesting “good luck” charms across the world.
Do you have a good luck charm? Let us know in the comments below!
