American Amulets (native)
There are several amulets of American origin with specific characteristics, properties and uses. Some of the best known are:
1. God’s Eye:
This amulet is native to Native American tribes, especially the Huichol and Navajo peoples. It consists of a cross-shaped fabric with threads of different colors that represent protection, unity and wisdom. The Eye of God is believed to protect its wearer from negative energies and promote harmony in the home.
2. Feathers:
Feathers are considered protective amulets in many Native American cultures. Feathers are believed to bring good luck, wisdom and connection to the spiritual world. They can be worn on a necklace or as part of a headdress to attract these positive energies.
3. Arrows:
Arrows are a symbol of protection and strength in Native American culture. They are used as amulets to ward off negative energies and to face challenges with courage and determination.
4. Energy stones:
Stones such as turquoise, obsidian or agate are considered amulets of protection and balance in Native American culture. Each stone is believed to have specific properties that can help its wearer connect with the earth, promote healing, and attract good luck.
5. Animal Totems:
Native Americans believe that each person has a guide animal or totem that represents their qualities and abilities. Wearing a figurine or image of your animal totem as an amulet can help strengthen your connection to nature, ancestral wisdom, and intuition.
From the North American Indians we have inherited an amulet known to all, the Dreamcatcher. The main function of a dreamcatcher is to filter and trap bad dreams and nightmares in the network, letting only positive and pleasant dreams pass through.
Its manufacture is relatively simple, consisting of a willow wood ring and with a loose net inside, it is decorated in a completely exclusive way by its creator.
The only common element in all of them is the feathers as fringes.
Fringe and tassels are a very important element in many tribes and peoples around the world and the reason is the following: there is a belief that bad spirits do not like fringes and tassels at all since they entertain and distract them. For this reason, they are used worldwide in clothing for people, animals and home decoration, in jackets, saddlebags, carpets, curtains, etc…
In general, typical Indian amulets include eagle and vulture feathers, fangs, claws and animal skins, etc. All of them are believed to be the belief that the wearers of said amulets will achieve the qualities of the animal.
Aztecs, Mayans and Meso Americans
The Aztecs, also known as “Mexicas” were the last Mesoamerican people to be completely colonized. With a great culture and rich knowledge in cosmology and astrology, they provided numerous knowledge to the colonizing peoples.
The Aztec people gave great importance to natural phenomena, time and especially the Sun. Hence, most of their amulets are based on the sun and their own calendar made up of 18 months granted by the gods.
Most of their amulets are made of stone, emeralds, «tiger’s eye» stone and of course, gold. Likewise, the Mayans also revered the Sun, the stars and were great astrologers and mathematicians.
Golden amulets representing the Aztec sun, worn as pendants or rings, grant success and prosperity.
South American Amulets
Currently the «Brazilian figa» (black forearm and fist) is very well known, as it protects from black spells and the evil eye.
Also known are the Guatemalan dolls, small thread figurines that are sewn five at a time. They are usually placed under the pillow to ensure good dreams.
The «Powerful Hand» is also very well known; It is the image of a hand with five saints and Jesus Christ. It is venerated in almost all of South America but especially in Peru; It is usually used to open roads and against enemies.
African-American Amulets
In America, many cultures currently intermingle, including those from Africa due to the horrible slave period. If you want to know more about African American amulets you can continue reading here.
