Tarot-Inspired Talismans

Oct 18

The future looks bright (and sparkly)

The “tarot” is a pack of playing cards, thought to have originated in northern Italy in the 15th century. For those who take cartomancy—or fortune-telling through the random selection of playing cards—seriously, it’s more than fun and games.

Card readers use special 78-card tarot decks that include cards called the Major Arcana (or “greater secrets”) and Minor Arcana (“lesser secrets”), each said to reveal an insight into the past, present, or future. The nature of the cards, especially the Major Arcana, which include themes like the Wheel of Fortune, the Moon, and the Lovers, are open to imaginative interpretation, and many tarot decks are true objets d'art. Jewelry designers are taking note and following suit, creating breathtaking talismanic charms rooted in the tarot’s augury.

While we can’t say for sure whether these pieces will bring good luck, we do predict this is a trend you’ll love.

**The Empress**

Nicole and Kim Carosella of Sorellina’s “L’Imperatrice” (the Empress) design is the motif that started it all. Associated with maternal influence, this symbol represents creation—of life, love, and even of art (fitting for the originators of an innovative concept).
Sorellina “L’Imperatrice” tarot card necklace in 18k yellow gold with diamonds and gemstones, $19,500 at TWIST

**The Magician**

According to designer Sofia Zakia, who creates hand-oxidized engraved pendants based on classical tarot decks by Jean Francois Alliette, the Magician “encourages manifestation and awakens a spiritual determination in your life journey.”
Sofia Zakia “Magician” tarot card necklace in 14k yellow gold with diamonds, $1,030 at Sofia Zakia

**The Moon**

You likely already know Alex & Ani for the brand’s highly collectible (and coveted) charm jewelry that encourages wearers to build their individualistic expression. For those looking for a reminder to trust their own intuition, this Moon charm is an illuminating pick.
Alex & Ani “Moon” tarot charm necklace, $69 at Alex & Ani

**The Lover**

Part of Harwell Godfrey’s “Hexed” collection, her “Lover” design combines gems known for healing properties (pink opal and chrysoprase) with a pyramid design meant to represent the “temple of self.” Given that the meaning of the Lovers card in tarot relates to finding balance and harmony, this is one powerfully positive pendant.
Harwell Godfrey Hexed Collection “The Lover” pendant in 18k gold with diamonds and gemstones, $7,850 at Harwell Godfrey

**Death**

Like the reading of the tarot, each of Maura Green’s tarot tablets are unique, thanks to her commitment to hand-carving techniques. Of the dark beauty of the Death card, Green says, “Despite its foreboding appearance, the Death Tarot … is about transformation, passage from one phase into the next, and positive change.”
Maura Green “Death and Rebirth” tarot card charm in 14k yellow gold with mother of pearl, $1,200 at Maura Green

**The Sun**

Gemologist Maria Ress loves connecting her customers to stones whose properties fulfill a need in their life. For those seeking success, look no further than Ress’s Sun pendant, a tarot symbol meant to signal self-confidence and fulfillment, made from resilient, stress-relieving mother of pearl.
Kastel Designs “Tarot Rising Sun” pendant in 14k yellow gold with diamonds and mother of pearl, $1,398 at Neiman Marcus

Editor: Samantha Durbin

Market Editor: Rebecca Daly

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