Alternative Talismans for St. Patricks’ Day

Based on many folklore tales, cultures, religions and countries around the world, good luck charms are everywhere. Here, we’ve provided a few other alternatives to the traditional St. Patrick’s Day four-leaf clover:

 

1. Coins

Do you remember the saying “See a penny, pick it up and all day long you’ll have good luck”? This superstition may have originated from ancient times when metal supposedly protected people from harm and evil. Also, money translates to good fortune. If the penny is face-up, pick it up. If it’s facedown, leave it there, as it’s said to be bad luck.

 

2. Ladybugs

The cute and friendly critter is said to be a sign of fortune and abundance. According to shamanic beliefs, the animal totem of the ladybug signifies that your wish is being granted – it’s also a sign to stop worrying, because good fortune is coming your way!

 

3. Cat’s Eye

In Vedic astrology, wearing a Cat’s Eye gemstone is believed to have curative powers from healing cancer to memory loss. Cat’s eye is also said to remove hurdles and hindrances from a person’s life, and wards off evil influences such as ghosts, spirits and bad energy. It prevents business losses and protects your finances. Protect yourself from harm with an all-natural Fine Quality Chrysoberyl Cat’s Eye Sri Lanka Gem of 4.68 carats.

4. Red Lanterns

In China or Chinatown in big cities across the United States, you see red lanterns everywhere. But what do they mean? They are said to help drive away bad luck. The tradition stemmed from Chinese villagers hanging lights to keep away wild animals. Later on, red lanterns were hung to celebrate marriages, promotions, and then as an olive branch in the heat of an argument or a lawsuit.

It’s a small leap, then to understanding their eventual use as symbols of good luck. The round shapes of the lanterns represent harmony, and the fire red color represents a life of powerful business, happiness, energy and prosperity. Hang your own set of 10 Red Lanterns at your next celebration to bring good luck!

 

5. Eggs

In England, gifted white eggs are believed to be lucky, and receiving brown eggs is unlucky. According to traditional folk religions, eggs symbolize rebirth, fertility and purity.

 

 

6. Grapes

In Spain and Portugal, eating grapes on New Year’s Day is a sign of good luck. This tradition is also practiced in Cuba, Mexico and other many countries in South America. Historically, this custom supposedly started in 1909, when grape growers sought to reduce a crop surplus. Traditionally, people will eat 12 – one for each stroke of the clock.

 

7. Sapphires

The Sapphire stone is thought to bring happiness, healing powers and justice. It was traditionally worn during the signing of legal documents and to ensure favorable outcomes during negotiations. As the centerpiece of King Solomon’s ring, it’s been revered as a stone of wisdom and royalty, prophecy and Divine favor throughout history.

 

8. Alligator Teeth

Many traditional good luck charms have their origins in Africa, including alligator teeth. For example, gamblers wearing alligator teeth should have good fortune.

 

 

 

9. Elephants

In Hindu countries such as India, the elephant is revered as sacred. The peaceful animal is a symbol of overcoming death. Ganesh, an elephant-headed deity, is the lord of removing obstacles and new beginnings.

 

 

10. Bamboo

In Feng Shui, bamboo brings luck as a living example of all five essential elements: water, wood, earth, fire and metal – the last two through the red bow traditionally tied around the glass or ceramic pot, complete with a lucky Chinese coin or laughing Buddha figurine attached. Bamboo’s peaceful strength and powerful growth is supposed to transfer to its owners. A gift of a particular number of bamboo stalks represents different hopes for the recipient, such as love and marriage, health, and wealth.