By: Keisha Starr is narrating her own destiny by using her God-given talent of creative writing to entertain and reframe the perception of urban fiction one paragraph at a time.
Throughout history people have worn spiritual jewelry for a variety of healing and religious rituals. With generations of research into the science of crystals, gemstones, and even the symbolism of certain adornments, we are now able to better understand the metaphysical powers of popular iconic jewelry worn for religious and spiritual purposes. Many spiritual talismans are deeply rooted in meaning and symbolism, and there is a right way and a wrong way to invite the power of divine energy into your life. Let’s look at some of the hottest trends in spiritual adornment, and see which one may fit your lifestyle.
Sacred Significance of Spiritual Jewelry
Since humans existed, we like to connect to and celebrate our faith with spiritual jewelry. Strut the runway of life rocking your spirituality, your faith, and protective forces on your sleeve; literally.
Some say diamonds are a girl’s best friend. If this is true, then the growing popularity of religious and spiritual jewelry could very well be your next soulmate.
Between 3,000 and 400 BC, Middle Eastern civilizations were producing jewelry with spiritual overtones. The elite were wearing stone amulets with religious significance. Many gods and goddesses wore jewelry that had powers of protection. Researchers and archaeologists have also discovered royal tombs in ancient Sumner with mummies dressed in crowns, headdresses, necklaces, earrings, rings, and pins.
Metaphysical Symbolism in Spiritual Jewelry
Spiritual jewelry as a fashion is not as far-fetched as it sounds. Think about it… Wedding rings are one of the most notable forms of spiritual jewelry. “With this ring, I thee wed,” is a common vow spoken at weddings. Reciting those words while sliding a ring onto someone’s finger unites them in holy matrimony and unifies their love. The significance of that ring then transforms from a “materialistic” element to a “symbolic” contractual agreement.
Whether it’s for protection, peace, health, wealth, or love, spiritual jewelry presents an opportunity for people to showcase and celebrate their personal beliefs. It’s a way to express traditions and values in a fashion forward, stylish, and creative way. Let’s break down some of the biggest trends in spiritual jewelry.
1. Mala Beads: The functional significance of 108 beads
Mala beads, also sometimes known as Buddhist prayer beads, are long strands of beads traditionally used for mantra practice and meditation. They typically have 108 beads on them (a sacred number which represents spiritual completion) plus a single “guru” bead to signify the beginning and end of a count cycle.
If you mediate daily or practice yoga, you probably own a set of Mala beads. Mala breads, also called Japa Mala, are prayer beads that’s been around for centuries in different religions, such as Catholicism and Hinduism.
Traditionally, Mala beads consists of 108 beads, a guru bead that’s bigger than the others, and a decorative tassel on the end. Although Mala beads are used for holistic and mindfulness practices, the basic design of the beads is deeply symbolic.
Okay, 108 beads may sound like a random number, but there’s significance behind that number. There are five common meanings behind Mala beads having 108 beads:
- The number of mortal desires of mankind
- 100 Mantras plus 8 mistakes for counting
- 27 Constellations times 4 parts
- 12 Zodiac Houses times 9 Planets
- 108 Upanishads or the Scriptures of the Vedas
It’s important to remember to charge your spirit Mala
It is important to charge your Mala beads so they can operate and function at their fullest potential. This can be done in several ways such as:
- Leave your Mala beads out in the sunlight or moonlight for a few hours
- Place them on top of clusters of crystals for at least 24-hours to cleanse them of negative energy
- Hold them in your dominant hand while closing your eyes and visualizing a clear, pure light traveling from above through the chakras onto your Mala beads.
A second piece of advice is to wear Mala beads for at least 40 days to fully integrate your energy. To recharge your beads, simply place them in direct sunlight for an entire day or under moonlight overnight.
Third, you should never allow anyone to touch or wear your Mala beads because they are intimate and hold sacred properties that are based on your specific energy and purpose of life.
Allowing someone else’s spirit and energy into your world could shift or even block your blessings. Lastly, under no circumstances should your Mala beads ever touch the ground. That is considered as a disrespectful and unethical practice that can release the positive energy and properties from your beads.
2. Kabbalah Red String Protection Bracelet: Celebrity Endorsed
You might have seen celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna, Ashton Kutcher, and Angelina Jolie wearing a simple red string bracelet.
Have you ever wondered why these millionaires are running around with a string around their wrist? They could easily afford a collection of Rolex watches or diamond bracelets! What if I told you that a simple red string bracelet is a symbol of protection, good luck, and abundance? Would you believe this simple red string has cultural connections to Christianity, Kabbalah, Buddhism, and Hinduism?
Red is a powerful color that symbolizes blood and protection. Use the Red String Protection Bracelet as a talisman to protect you from evil forces and bad intentions. Good luck and fortune will come to the person who wears it. The Red String Protection Bracelet is typically worn on the left hand, since it’s closest to the heart.
While tying the bracelet, make a wish or speak life into something you would like to see come into existence.
This bracelet can be worn until it falls off naturally. It is said that when it falls off, whatever you wished for will come to be, or is close to being fulfilled. It could also mean that the bracelet has protected you from enough evil forces and have prevented an abundance of negative energy from getting close to you.
3. The Red Thread of Fate is an invisible thread that ties you to your soul mate.
Have you met your soul mate? Not your life partner, but your actual soul mate?
Japanese legend concludes that your soul mate is already connected to you via a red string, whether you know it or not. The Red String of Fate symbolizes the belief that an invisible red cord is tied around your pinky and your soulmates pinky.
Despite any geographical barrier or circumstances, these two individuals will find their way to each other. No matter how far the string is stretched or tangled, it will never break.
Likewise, the popular Chinese legend also speaks of the Red Thread of Fate. They believe the red string is tied to the ankles of two people who are predestined to be together by lunar matchmaker god, Yue Leo.
I know this may sound a bit farfetched, but I’ve read a few stories of couples that have successfully identified their Red String of Fate soul mate.
For example, a woman by the name of Veronica shared that she was looking through old family photos and decided to show her boyfriend a picture of a goofy kid that photo-bombed their family’s picture.
Her boyfriend, Mirand looked at the picture and laughed because he remembered owning the exact quirky t-shirt the kid was wearing in the photo. After taking a closer look, the couple realized that the goofy kid in the background was in fact Mirand, who had photo-bombed Veronica’s family photo ten years prior to meeting her.
4. Crystals: The Limitless Power of the Master Healers
Crystals were used as ancient healing tools within the religions of Hinduism and Buddhism for generations. They possess healing powers for the mind, body, and soul. There are many varieties of crystals, each with a distinct and unique purpose. They facilitate the flow of positive energy while grounding the negative. Crystals effectively promote physical and mental health and wellness.
Crystal jewelry comes in various beautiful presentations and layouts, with each bearing a unique healing purpose.
Clear Quartz Crystal
Clear and sparkling, these pieces of jewelry will light up your day with their beauty. From bracelets to necklaces or earrings,there’s something for everyone!
Case in point, the clear quartz is a white crystal that’s considered a master healer. It has powers to absorb, store, release, and regulate energy, and is also a concentration and memory enhancement.
Rose Quartz
Rose quartz exemplifies love and has the power to build trust and harmony within personal relationships and provides comfort and protection during time of grief.
Jasper, which is a smooth crystal that’s termed supreme nurturer, possesses an empowering force that supports emotional regulations. It also absorbs negative energy, while promoting courage, confidence, and quick thinking.
Important rules to remember when wearing crystals as spiritual jewelry:
The first thing to do when you receive your crystal is to bless it and program it with your intentions. Remember, these stones work for you, so you must tell them exactly what you need them to do.
Secondly, it is wise to refrain from wearing more than three crystals at once. According to ancient scriptures, this can lead to Crystal Chaos. Again, each crystal has its own powers so wearing too many can cause confusion and result in them losing focus on what you need them to do.
Think about it like this, if one person is talking to you, you’re liable to hear them clearly. If two people are talking to you at once, their words may start to sound garbled and confusing. Now, if three or more people starts talking at the same time, the conversation will become chaotic and distorted. The same logic applies when wearing multiple healing crystals.
Lastly, there’s an art to wearing crystals, so just like anything else in this world, you must do your homework to see which ones are compatible versus ones that will counteract and work against each other. For example combining malachite, cool colored stones, and clear quartz, may lead to inducing stress and anxiety instead of the intended healing energy.
5. Evil Eye “Nazar” Bracelet
Stunning bracelet made of gold tone stainless steel and royal blue eraser. This evil eye charm will protect you from all sorts of bad vibes!
The evil eye bracelet is a stylish, powerful, and bold talisman used to protect against Nazar, a supernatural power with the ability to cast spells of envious spirit, bad luck, misfortune, hatred, disaster, poor health, and death. Blue is the traditional color of the evil eye; however, this bracelet comes in different shapes, designs, and colors such as black, red, orange, green, pink, brown, etc.
Like crystals, each colored evil eye has its own powers. For instance, blue brings good karma and fate, light blue possess the power of guidance and protection, orange brings happiness and joy to one’s life, yellow brings good health, black brings prosperity, and pink helps to find true love.
The Nazar bracelet can be worn on either wrist depending on your personal intentions. It should be worn on the left hand to protect your emotions and personal life affairs, such as relationships, friendships, and the mind.
The bracelet is worn on the right hand for protection of material things like career, money, and properties.
Second, if your evil eye bracelet breaks that means it’s working properly. Negative energy was coming your way, but the bracelet gathered all the evil looks at the center of its eye, which caused the bracelet to break.
Lastly, avoid unnecessary drama and simply be kind to others. As the old saying goes, hurt people hurt people, and evil attracts evil. The best way to avoid destructive energy is to steer away from it.
Practice positive thinking, make confident affirmations, and have genuine love in your heart for others.
6. The Symbol of the Ouroboro – Oldest Allegorical Symbol
The ouroboros is an ancient symbol of a snake eating itself. This symbol represents the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. It reminds us that everything is connected and that nothing is ever truly lost.
Known as the oldest allegorical symbol in alchemy, the Ouroboros represented the concept of eternity and endless return. The serpent symbol is said to embody power, fertility, transformation, and protection. In addition, from a biblical standpoint, the symbol is a representation of the serpent from the Garden of Eden.
An Ouroboro is a circular-shaped snake or dragon wrapped around itself with its tail in its mouth.
A wide range of studies on ancient treasures led to the discovery of Ouroboros spiritual jewelry and its relevance. The earliest Ouroboros symbol dates to the 14th century in King Tutankhamen’s tomb. In ancient cultures, the Ouroboros is a representation of the nature of the universe; cycle of life and death, creation out of destruction, and the connection between light and darkness.
Snake jewelry gained worldwide attention during the Victorian era after Prince Albert proposed to Queen Victoria with a snake-inspired engagement ring.
Most recently, celebrities have slithered into the religious trend as well. For example:
- Zoe Saldana wore a snake ring at the Oscars.
- Rhianna and Alicia Keys wore snake rings at the Grammy’s.
- Julianne Moore wore a snake bracelet to the Golden Globes.
- Taylor Swift revealed she wears the sign of the reptile as an act of requital, and
- Gucci’s Alessandro Michele proclaimed she wears it as a form of escapism to unleash the animal within.
7. The Ever Hallowed Tree of Life
The tree of life is a strong symbol that we can find in many cultures around the world. It represents strength, growth, and fertility. The tree of life is also a symbol of abundance, wisdom, and knowledge.
The Bible mentions the Tree of Life several times. Once in Genesis 2, once in Eden, and four times in Revelation.
In Revelation 22:2, the Apostle John speaks of the River of Life and also mentions on each side of the river stood the Tree of Life. The Tree of Life had twelve crops producing its fruit every month. It also stated the leaves on that tree had powers to heal the nations.
The Tree of Life is a popular and universal symbol that carries multiple meanings across a multitude of cultures and religions, including the Mayans and Buddhists.
The benefits of the Tree of Life
The symbol design varies according to details, concepts, philosophies, and spirituality. But, the inherent nature of this sacred symbol represents the interconnectedness of all things residing in the universe.
The root of the tree runs deep and spreads into the earth, thus being nourished and preserved by Mother Earth, and its branches stretches to the sky, absorbing energy from the sun and moon.
Ultimately, the Tree of Life exemplifies family, rebirth, fertility, intimacy, stability, growth, individuality, calmness, and peace, and is a reminder that no matter what’s going on in the world, no one is ever truly alone or lives in isolation.
The Tree of Life is a great design to wear for people seeking peace, prosperity, positive energy, and good health. It is a apt symbol for someone celebrating a momentous event, such as a wedding, graduation, or birth of a child.
The Tree of Life is also an ideal selection for someone experiencing challenges in their personal life as a reminder that just as a tree can survive heavy storms and strong wind, they too can overcome their own pain and struggles without falling.
Some people pair the Tree of Life spiritual jewelry with their birthstone or healing stones to add layers of healing powers and protection.
8. Find Your Spirit Animal and Devotional Purpose
The phrase “golden blue moment” refers to a time when something special happens that makes you feel free and alive. This image of a butterfly emerging from a jar symbolizes freedom from force or constraint.
In the movie Lion King, Beyonce sings the song Spirit, and the lyrics go, “Your destiny is coming close… Stand up and fight. So, go into that far off land… And be one with the Great I am, I Am…. A boy becomes a man.”
This song details the courageous and confident emotions of a leader approaching their destiny. It also details the spirit of resiliency. Why is this so important and how does it relate to Spiritual Animal?
Well, the symbol of a lion represents strength, protection, loyalty, and power. When you think of Beyonce’s attributes, her personality aligns perfectly with that of a lion, so one could guess that if Beyonce had a Spiritual Animal, the lion would be a good match.
Spiritual animal characteristics and behaviors are those of an animal that closely resembles a human. People frequently use this spiritual animal as a navigational tool to guide individuals on their personal journey of self-exploration.
If a Spiritual Animal manifests into your life, it has the potential to tap into your unconscious mind to discover who you are and why you behave in a certain manner.
In Native American and other ethnic cultures, spiritual animals are held in high regards and are extremely sacred.
How do you find your Spiritual Animal?
If you find yourself crossing paths with a specific animal very often, that could possibly be your spirit animal. Also, if a particular animal keeps showing up in your dream, displaying on certain objects and buildings, or pops up in your mind when you’re meditating, those are further indications that this maybe your spirit animal. There are also quizzes that you can take to be matched with your Spiritual Animal and their personal attributes.
For example, a bear symbolizes strength, power courage, and leadership. A butterfly symbolizes growth, transformation, rebirth, and playfulness. The dolphin symbolizes balance, peace, protection, resurrection, and inner strength and the horse signifies passion, drive, freedom, and strong sexual energy.
Once you’ve identified with your Spiritual Animal, you can wear it on a bracelet, necklace, or earring as a reminder of the spiritual essences that inspire you. You can also wear it as a form of protection from negative and destructive energies.
9. Zodiac/Astrological
The zodiac is a magical circle that can predict one’s future. There are 12 signs in this overlapping grid, and each sign has its own unique properties to help with predictions for success or failure at anything they do!
Although sparkly gems and polished metals are derived from earth, many jewelers are getting their inspiration from beyond the sky, which explains why zodiac/astrology pieces have always been a thriving fashion trend.
By examining the sun, moon, and positions of the planets, astrologists can identify a person’s basic characteristics and preferences. Astrological symbolism is quite compelling and people are acknowledging the similarities between their personalities and the characteristics of their zodiac sign.
Zodiac geometry, planet alignment, and ancient symbolism can steer major life decisions regarding relationships, marriage, or employment.
There are twelve zodiac signs, and each holds unique strengths, weaknesses, likes, dislikes, personality traits, and desires. Capricorn, Sagittarius, and all signs in between all belong to one of the four elements of the world: Water (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces), Fire (Aries, Leos, Sagittarius), Earth (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn), and Air (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius). Water signs are said to be extremely intuitive and supportive. Fire signs are for passionate and adventurous individuals. Earth signs are realistic and loyal, while air signs are social and enjoy interacting with other signs.
Celestial-themed spiritual jewelry, such as moons, stars, constellations, and zodiac signs are worn as a symbol of love, happiness, magic, good luck, and protection. So, whether you’re an outspoken Scorpio or a motivated Aries, wearing zodiac/astrological jewelry is a beautiful way to recall and connect to your prehistorical belief system that formed the person you are today and which shaped your cultural beliefs.
10. Holy Cross
The Holy Cross is a powerful Christian symbol that many people use to express their love and devotion for Jesus Christ.
The Holy Cross is a symbol that features a Christian cross or crucifix, depending on the eyes and interpretation of the beholder. It is worn to celebrate the Christian faith and is displayed on churches and used at religious rituals such as baptisms and confirmations. The Holy Cross is by far one of the most distinguished and recognized religious symbols of the world. Although the symbol has various connotations, it is most famous for being the instrument of Christ’s crucifixion.
Like the Evil Eye, the Holy Cross acts as a talisman against the evil powers of demons and is perceived as the armor of God, who sent his only begotten son, Jesus Christ to die on the cross for the sins of mankind.
It is important to note that Christians did not wear the Holy Cross as spiritual jewelry for fashion purposes until crucifixions became a thing of the past and was no longer the primary source for capital punishment.
Also, the Bible spoke against the use of jewelry in Peter 3: 3-4. “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing gold, or of putting on of apparel. But let it be the hidden man of the hear, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” Well, let’s just say that time has changed and the Holy Cross has crossed over to the world of fashion.
Why do people wear it as an amulet?
Since the fifth century until today, the Holy Cross is widely worn as an amulet. People are celebrating their religion by wearing the emblem as a symbol of love, admiration, respect, and remembrance of Jesus Christ and the sacrifice he made to save the world.
Of course, you have individuals like rapper Kodak Black who wears the Holy Cross to spruce up his outfit, which is evident in his song Roll in Peace. “He don’t even believe in Jesus… Why got a Jesus piece?”
So, whether someone’s praying to their God or preying on the Fashion Gods, the Holy Cross remains the most worn piece of spiritual jewelry of all time.