Collection: Authentic Viking Jewelry

A Guide to Viking Jewelry

Jewelry mattered deeply in the Norse world. Rings, brooches and neck-rings were worn as marks of loyalty and status, and silver was even carried on the body as portable wealth. Today Viking jewelry is one of the most personal ways to wear a piece of Norse mythology, whether you want a single statement piece or a set to layer. Below is everything you need to choose the right pieces for you.

Types of Viking jewelry

• Rings. Signet bands, adjustable wraps and ornate carved designs, the most versatile everyday piece. Browse our Viking rings.
• Necklaces & pendants. Mjolnir hammers, Valknut, wolf and raven pendants on chains or leather cords. See our Viking necklaces.
• Bracelets & arm rings. Open-ended cuffs and wolf-head arm rings, plus leather and paracord styles. Explore our bracelets and arm rings.
• Beard beads & accessories. Small rune and knotwork beads to finish a braided beard or hair.

Materials, silver, bronze & steel

925 sterling silver is the classic choice: bright, detailed and heirloom-quality, though it tarnishes over time and can be polished back. Bronze gives a warm, antique look that develops a natural patina. Stainless steel is the most hard-wearing and will not tarnish, so it is ideal for daily wear, while leather and cord are common on bracelets. You will find all of these across the collection.

The symbols & their meanings

Every piece carries meaning. The Valknut (three interlocking triangles) is tied to Odin and the honoured dead; Mjolnir, Thor's hammer, stands for protection and strength; the Vegvisir is the Norse wayfinder said to keep the wearer from losing their way; the Helm of Awe (Aegishjalmur) for courage; and wolves, ravens and the world-serpent Jormungandr each carry their own story from the sagas. For the background behind these symbols, read our guide to Norse mythology symbols and their meanings.

How to choose your pieces

Want an everyday piece? A silver or steel signet ring or a simple Mjolnir pendant is the easy pick. Building a look? Layer a necklace with a matching bracelet and ring in the same metal. Buying a gift or unsure of ring size? Choose an adjustable ring or a pendant, which suits any wearer. Match the symbol to the person and their story.

Caring for Viking jewelry

Keep silver dry and polish it with a soft cloth to lift tarnish; bronze can be left to patina or brightened with a gentle cleaner; stainless steel just needs an occasional wipe. Take pieces off before swimming or heavy work, and store them somewhere dry to protect the finish.

Viking Jewelry, FAQ

What is Viking jewelry?

Viking jewelry is jewelry made in the Norse style, rings, necklaces, bracelets, arm rings and beard beads cast or engraved with symbols from Norse mythology such as the Valknut, Mjolnir, Vegvisir and runes. In the Viking Age, silver pieces also served as wearable wealth and tokens of loyalty.

What is Viking jewelry made of?

Most of ours is made from 925 sterling silver, bronze or stainless steel, with leather and cord used on some bracelets. Silver and bronze are best for detail and an heirloom feel, while stainless steel is the most durable for everyday wear.

What do the symbols mean?

Common motifs include the Valknut (linked to Odin and fallen warriors), Mjolnir (Thor's hammer, protection and strength), the Vegvisir or wayfinder, the Helm of Awe (courage), and wolves, ravens and serpents from the sagas. You can match the meaning to the person wearing it.

Did both Viking men and women wear jewelry?

Yes. Both men and women wore rings, arm rings, brooches and beads. Much of our collection is unisex, and pieces work equally well for men and women.

Does Viking jewelry tarnish?

Sterling silver and bronze develop tarnish or patina over time, which is normal and can be polished back with a soft cloth or gentle cleaner. Stainless steel does not tarnish.

Is Viking jewelry a good gift?

Yes. A Norse piece makes a meaningful gift, and each carries a symbol with its own story, so you can match it to the person. Adjustable rings and pendants avoid sizing worries.

How do I care for my Viking jewelry?

Keep silver dry and polish it with a soft cloth, let bronze patina or brighten it with a gentle cleaner, and wipe stainless steel occasionally. Remove pieces before swimming or heavy work and store them somewhere dry.