The Story Teller Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on October 17, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, Jewelry design. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , . Leave a comment

One day I was resting between tasks and M’Lady was speaking about one of her closest friends, one we nick name “The Story Teller” and rightfully so: it really doesn’t matter what the woman has been up to, the experience (no matter how mundane) becomes a great epic adventure in the telling. A phone call or a chat over coffee in the morning will launch us into a trek across the country.

The Story Teller Amulet
The Story Teller Amulet

She spoke of how as a girl her best friend would launch into a story, she would climb into her lap, close her eyes and listen.

Later I was at my carving bench again, looking over a rough sketch of what I had envisioned of her story and thus I began to carve. Using the imagery of a woman telling her tale I set her audience in her lap: the story enveloping her, entangling her into the tale; becoming a part of it.

The Story Teller Amulet is for the bards, the story tellers, those with the gift of the gab, teachers of lore, those who encourage us to become our own heroes by being so themselves. It is for those who love tales of tails and know the value of a great story.

Oshun Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on October 16, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, Jewelry design, Multi Faith. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , . 1 Comment

Oshun in the Yoruba, Efa and Santería religions, is an Orisha (not quite a “goddess”, however in the case of those who are not of these Faiths it is a close approximation) reigns over love, intimacy, beauty, wealth and diplomacy. She may also be found in Brazilian Candomblé Ketu, with the name spelled Oxum. She is beneficent, generous and very kind. She does, however, have a temper which she seldom loses but which can cause havoc! In one of the stories about her, Oshun is said to have gone to a drum festival and fallen in love with Shango, and has been married to him ever since.

The Study of the Orisha is very complex and deeply rooted in the cultures from where they spring. If one is to trace it’s lore, you will find a path that leads over five thousand years into the heart of Africa and transcends time itself. I would encourage anyone who is interested in this subject to take the time for farther research.

Oshun Amulet

I have some very close friends who have devoted themselves in these traditions and found a wealth of knowledge, wisdom and insight into the human condition. One of the jewels of my life is the introduction the the lovely and charming Oshun. On a visit to Florida some years ago I found myself strolling in an orchid garden and talking to a Dear One about Oshun and found myself gazing into one of the most exquisite flowers I had ever seen.

My friend pointed it out and said “the Orchid’s beauty is much like Oshun Herself: the flower’s beauty, fragrance and form holds a wounder that inspires a spark deep within you; it is that connection to Glory that invokes Her.” Love itself cannot be found: it must be inspired and generated within you, through that beholding one finds a path to Spirit.

In the Oshun Amulet, I attempted to capture the moment with a quiet face hidden a cluster of orchids, adorned with a small opal set beneath her. This would be for those who wish to invoke love and beauty in their lives.

The Doni Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on October 11, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, Pagan Jewelry. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , . 1 Comment

One of the earliest works of art found in the digs of archeology is the Venus of Willendorf; sometimes referred to as the Doni. A simple stone carving of a woman’s body sans arms, face and the feet narrow down to a point. In the writings of professor Joseph Campbell, he points out the image was not intended to be a “realistic” rendering of a woman, rather the Force behind the Archetypal Feminine.

The Doni Amulet
The Doni Amulet

Because there is no one alive today to ask, (Carved in the Paleolithic era: 24,000–22,000 BCE) we can only speculate as to how this images were cherished, yet we see the image again and again in many aspects, each time the focus what the body does rather than who the person is. In much of sacred art, when an image is without a face, hands or feet, it refers to the transcendent rather than the the personal.

This simple form of Womanhood has been re-claimed by many as a reminder of the power of creation and how we all rely on the Feminine Aspect of our world. The term: sacred refers to that which is considered worthy of spiritual respect or devotion. Inspiring awe or reverence among believers in a given set of spiritual ideas. When one is in the presence of a birth or death one gets the sense of the great momentum of creation; it is both a part of who and what we are and transcends all things.

I have created in the Doni Amulet my own an interpretation of this image. The head is a simple sphere: no hair or face that can be identified, thus it may represents all faces and that which has none. I have included the arms that tourniquet without hands: this is a power of momentum and it currents can overflow simple or finite articulation. The legs are also tourniqueted presenting her locality and ability to influence everywhere. Her breasts are those of nourishment: both full and yet capable or going dry. Her genitalia: the bardo or gateway of fertility and birth. In an agricultural society, fertility was extremely important for everyone concerned: everything from the food on your table or whether there will be another generation of young people to bring in the harvest. Over all the Doni Amulet is large, bold and simple in form. In sterling silver it is reflective of the world around it.

The Doni Amulet is for those who love and worship all things feminine. Cultivating those aspects within one’s self and/or honoring the women in their lives.

The Holly Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on October 5, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, Celtic Jewelry, Celtic Lore, Druid Jewelry, nature Jewelry, Pagan Jewelry. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , . Leave a comment

Much is written in praise of the Holly. More often than not, we”deck the halls” at Yule, however the Holly in Celtic Lore is attributed in the ancient writing of Ogham to the “spear” and the month of June. Like the Oak it is primordial, attributed to the soul’s struggle with thorny spears and hard wood, it germinates in darkness and able to retain it’s intensity though the darker times of the year; triumphant in it’s resurgence: bearing red berries during the most hash weather of the year.

The Holly Amulet
The Holly Amulet

In the Arthurian legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: Gawain takes up the challenge of an exchange of blows by a stranger to the court holding an ax in one hand and a holly branch in the other. The Story revels an aspect of the Green Man’s lessons: the harsh teachings of the Soul’s Journey through Spiritual Awakening.

The Holly Crown is also used in Druidic initiation for those who have mastered certain lore and worn while collecting Mistletoe, a sacred task near Yule. This image was then “borrowed” during the invasion of Christendom and mounted on the image of Christ. Thus Holly has been revered as sacred though out the ages and transcended the religious conversions of the past many centuries.

The Holly Amulet is a simple sprig of holly with a small cluster of berries, presenting the plant in fruition. I have “rounded” the points of the holly for easier wear so it will not harm the person wearing the piece; preserving the image of the plant. People who embrace the lore of the Holly, wish to celebrate the soul’s triumph over the harshness of one’s spiritual journey or simply love the image of this magnificent plant would enjoy the Holly amulet.

The PAX Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on October 4, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, Christian Jewelry, Multi Faith. Tagged: , , , , , . 4 Comments

The word “PAX” in Latin translates as “Peace”. Peace describes a society or a relationship operating harmoniously, without violent conflict. Peace is commonly thought of as the absence of hostility, or the existence of healthy or newly healed relationships, safety in matters of social or economic welfare, the acknowledgment of equality and fairness. As with many other religions, the concept of peace is accentuated in Christian Theology as an important state of being: the result of Christ’s presence. Christianity focuses on being “Christ-Like” who was the bringer of Peace. “Peace” itself does not refer to “all things immobile” rather it is a state of Blessing and Clarity that begins with the individual and emanates outward to all things; thus being “Christ-like”.

The Pax Amulet
The PAX Amulet

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

As Christianity has been shaped and molded by cultural influences (as with all religions older than the founder) the message of Peace has become lost and other agendas emerge that counter the core idea. Many times religions face problems of being burdened by these agendas and a resurgence of “getting back to basics” arises – often with ill effects: Peace is compromised with new exceptions and excuses as to why it is secondary; yet the core belief of these virtues become evident as cultural measures against it’s own doctrine prove inadequate.

Through out the Christian Churches of the world, the image of “PAX” arise again and again on alter cloths, statues, stained glass and more as the artisans of the religion try to remind the practitioners again and again the message of Peace. My Father (a minister) felt the image of PAX was a better alternative to the cross because it pointed directly to the value of the religion he practiced. Some years ago I created the PAX Amulet for him, an amulet he cherished for the rest of his life.

The PAX Amulet is formed by the capital letter “P” with the smaller case “x” mounted on the main trunk, much like a tree with new branches and roots, giving a sense of stability and new growth. I have added the bail behind the top portion of the “P” so it may be hung by a chain or cord.

After my Father’s passing I decided to add it to my line of jewelry, both to honor him and to help remind others of the message of Peace.

The Artemis Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on October 2, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, Greek Mythology Jewelry, Pagan Jewelry. Tagged: , , , , , , , , . 1 Comment

One of the most widely venerated of Ancient Greek deities, Homer refers to Her as: “Artemis of the wild-land, Mistress of Animals”. Daughter of Zeus and Leto, she was the Hellenic goddess of the hunt, wild animals, wilderness, virginity and young girls. She is often depicted as a huntress carrying a bow and arrow. Deer and cypress are sacred to her. In later Hellenistic times, she even assumed the ancient role of Eileithyia in aiding childbirth. Other theological references include Diana: goddess of the Hunt and Moon.

The Artemis Amulet
Artemis Amulet

In my one inch, two sided Artemis Amulet I have included a bow and arrow and the theological reference to Selene: (a Greek moon goddess) with a crescent moon above her head. there is a hidden bail for hanging the amulet on a chain or cord within the moon.

This would be an excellent gift for young girls entering womanhood, studying or already achieving midwifery or anyone who honors Women and loves their wild side.

Custom Dryad

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on October 1, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, Celtic Jewelry, Celtic Lore, Druid Jewelry, Greek Mythology Jewelry, Jewelry design, nature Jewelry, Pagan Jewelry. Tagged: , , , , , . Leave a comment

One of my favorite subjects in sculpture and jewelry design is the tree.
Over the years I have created several versions of the Dryad:
a forest spirit in tree-shape
able to commune with other beings.
Many authors of classical literature
such as Milton and Keats describe them in poetry.
The Dryad is associated with the oak,
however other Tree Nymphs
associated with other kinds of trees;
such as apple trees were Epimeliad,
walnut-trees Caryatids
and Meliai
are associated with the Ash Tree.

Custom Dryad

Custom Dryad Amulet

This necklace of a Dryad is composed
of sterling silver for the body
and roots with bronze as the leaves above her.
Tiny nymphs hold the amulet to a custom sterling chain.
This necklace was created for a dear friend
and is a one-of-a-kind piece:
no mold was taken for reproduction.
However should you wish to have your own
personal Dryad made just for you,
I would only be too happy to make one for you.

The Bear Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on September 16, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, nature Jewelry, Totem Jewelry. Tagged: , , , , , , , . 3 Comments

Classically the Bear is associated with Leadership, strength and healing. In much of Native American totems, the association of the bear is also one of of self sufficiency and stubbornness. Bears hibernate during winter, thus those associated with the Bear tend to be “slow” yet thoughtful during the winter. When the ice thaws in spring, the bear becomes very active, looking to the local environment to forage; so it is true with those who associate themselves with this totem: warm weather gets them up and moving: ponderously, yet ever moving forward.

Bear Amulet
Bear Amulet

Bear Medicine reminds us to follow our natural cycles. By going with the flow energies align more positively and successfully. Sometimes Bear Medicine appears in order to tell us to slow down for a season. A powerful symbol for the subconscious depths, the Bear sometimes suggests getting off the main path and seek your own in your own way and time.

In the Bear Amulet I have captured the image of a bear speaking, voicing his ideas and calling those around him to take notice of their situation. At times offering is a warning to those who wish to be aware of danger or of knowledge well earned through experience. Otherwise the bear is silent and ever careful: “when in doubt: don’t”.

The Bear Amulet is one and a quarter inch bas-relief sculpture: a shallow carving of the mouth giving the illusion of a deep carving, textured fur with a “hidden” back bail to hang on your chain or cord.

The Solon Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on September 14, 2010
Posted in: Amulets, Custom Jewelry, Music Jewelry. Tagged: , , , , , , , . 1 Comment

Two dear friends of mine live in Las Vegas.
Periodically they “throw a little soiree” in their spacious home,
inviting some of the best hidden talent in town.
Traditionally, Solons were parties developed by the noble,
talented and well educated in Europe
(and championed by Thomas Jefferson)
who entertained each other with good food,
conversation and musical interludes.
For my friends in LV,
the concept is simple:
many of the professionals perform nightly
at the Mystere and other Circ de Soleil entertainments,
yet wish to expand their talent into new and inventive ways.
The result is beautiful: song and dance,
even visual art of paintings and sculpture are presented to each other
in a safe environment where all are experimenting
with new and unusual expressions of their talents,
even stretching into each others art.
They are so supportive of each other that the stretch into water ballet,
performance art of dance and original compositions.

The Solon Amulet

The Solon Amulet

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The Xagerations Amulet

Posted by Amulets by Merlin on September 6, 2010
Posted in: Band Jewelry, Custom Jewelry, Music Jewelry. Tagged: , , , . 1 Comment

True enough, I make band jewelry. My latest “musical” piece is for the Punk Rock Band “The Xagerations” based out of Portland, OR. Formed between my Daughter Amber (Bass), her husband Jared (Drums) and their friend and lead guitarist Tom, they play at the Red Room there in the beautiful city of Portland on a regular basis. Their music is classically Punk: loud, raucous and fun with a hint of an addictive persuasion to get up and dance at a moment’s notice.

The Xagerations Amulet

A piece of artwork provided by one of Amber’s friends, this image was selected as a logo to help illustrate the kind of “feeling” they often present on stage: a well attired “Zombie-esque” skull with a mammoth stogy clutched between the choppers.

I am presenting the amulet through my website (from which they get a percentage of the sales), however if you attend their concerts, you may purchase the bronze versions directly from them, and let me encourage you to do so. If you haven’t heard them, the Xagerations released their first recording: “The Best Demo Ever” available (again) at their concerts and directly through their website. Check it out and hear clips for it at their MySpace place.

Dance like a zombie!