“…By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes!” It’s almost October, which means that ghouls and goblins are stirring about, plotting their approach. How will you protect yourself? If you’re ready to jump into the Halloween spirit, an amulet can summon sanctuary to protect you against ill will. Whether the costume you’re planning needs a little extra protection or you just love that witchy look, we’re here today to inspire a little creativity in the form of an alluring charm.
Because an amulet is simply an ornament that will protect its wearer, its style can really look however you’d like. Wear it on a bracelet, a brooch, or even tuck it into your pocket. For a truly bewitching vibe, I chose to make mine a long, draping necklace. I sought rose quartz in my thrift store search because many people believe it has beneficial powers that create a sense of calm and promote love. I also knew I wanted my amulet to incorporate circles because they are a symbol of unity and protection.
But why did I go with Goodwill to source my stone? Why didn’t I just buy all of the elements at the craft store if had to go there anyway? Well, I love anything with a little history. Pieces that have been well-loved before I take them home always pique my curiosity and add a little meaning for me. I also feel great about supporting Goodwill because their programs that move people to employment can reduce reliance on over-stretched public assistance programs. That helps my local community and our nation as a whole. In that way, it feels like my amulet would not just be protecting me, but the futures of those Goodwill helps, too!
So, here’s how I made it: First, I scouted my local Goodwill for some foundation pieces (a long chain and a shorter necklace with a rose quartz stone), then grabbed some copper wire and a circle charm from the craft store to round the piece out. Depending on what you find under your Goodwill’s display case, you could add more layers or embellishments and skip the craft store altogether! My instructions will be a bit vague because the materials you find will vary from mine and your taste may, too, but hopefully it will give you a little guidance.
Materials
- Long necklace chain
- Thrifted jewelry with a large stone
- Wire that’s thin enough to thread through your stone, chain and charms (I used copper-colored 22-gauge)
- Any additional charms (optional)
- Wire cutters
- Jewelry pliers
Step 1: Find the center link of the chain (the one that falls the lowest in front when the clasp rests centrally at the back of your neck) and lay it out. Use the pliers to open up the jump ring (the little connecting circle) on your first charm, then hook that through the center link and use the pliers to close it again.
Step 2: Remove the stone from its original necklace chain (if you have to switch chains) and cut a length of wire to fit through it.
Step 3: Bend the wire up the sides of the stone until they meet in the top center of the stone. Twist the two sides together at least once. The more you twist, the further the stone will rest from the chain link.
Step 4: Position the stone wherever you think it looks good behind the charm and twist the wire again, but this time around the jump ring. Trim the excess wire and use the pliers to squeeze the ends in toward the center of the circle and away from the wearer. If these ends are resting on the side of the necklace that will hit your body, you risk getting scratched or pulling the fabric of your clothing; so, again, make sure they’re tucked inside the ring.
Step 5: Cut another length of wire that is quite a bit bigger than the stone. Put the wire through the jump ring with the stone and charm. Bend it into a circle (it may already be circular if it’s stored that way in the package), and overlap both ends. Tighten the size of the circle until the wire is doubled all the way around. Twist both pieces gently together to create a loosely interwoven circle. Wrap and bend the ends a little tighter than the rest of the circle so they’ll stay in place. Squeeze the top of the hoop gently into a slight tear-drop shape with the top being where the ends meet so that part stays within the jump ring during wear.
And that’s it! Enjoy your new amulet necklace and the feeling of protection it hopefully brings your way. Before you start, you could do a little research on different crystal types and charm shapes, then scout your local Goodwill stores with your favorites in mind. Wishing you all the best as you head out into the night for a socially distanced All Hallows’ Eve!