Collection: Authentic Viking Necklaces

A Guide to Viking Necklaces

A pendant worn at the throat was one of the clearest ways a Norseman or woman showed what they believed in. Thor's hammer amulets have been found across the Viking world, worn for protection and as a symbol of faith. Today a Viking necklace is one of the most meaningful pieces you can wear, carrying a symbol chosen for its story. Below is everything you need to choose the right one.

Popular Viking pendants

• Mjolnir (Thor's hammer). The most iconic Norse pendant, worn for protection and strength. See our dedicated Mjolnir collection.
• Valknut. Three interlocking triangles linked to Odin and the honoured dead.
• Wolf & raven. Fenrir and the wolves Geri and Freki, and Odin's ravens Huginn and Muninn.
• Yggdrasil. The World Tree that binds the Nine Realms together.
• Vegvisir & Helm of Awe. Protective stave designs for guidance and courage.

Materials & chains

925 sterling silver is 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, making it ideal for daily wear. Pendants come on box, curb or ball chains, or on leather and cord for a more rugged look; many chains can be swapped to suit your style.

The symbols & their meanings

Every pendant carries meaning. Mjolnir stands for protection and strength; the Valknut is tied to Odin and fallen warriors; wolves and ravens carry their own roles in the myths; and Yggdrasil represents the connection between all the realms. To read the background behind these symbols, see our guide to Norse mythology symbols and their meanings, or the story of Odin's ravens Huginn and Muninn.

How to choose your necklace

Start with the symbol that means the most to you or the person you are buying for. For everyday wear, a stainless steel or silver Mjolnir on a medium-length chain is a safe pick. For a bolder look, choose a larger pendant on a leather cord. A pendant suits any wearer, so it makes an easy gift with no sizing to worry about. You may also like our bracelets and arm rings to complete the look.

Caring for your necklace

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. Remove your necklace before showering or swimming, and store it flat to stop the chain tangling.

Viking Necklaces, FAQ

What is a Viking necklace?

A Viking necklace is a pendant in the Norse style worn on a chain or cord, usually cast or engraved with a symbol from Norse mythology such as Mjolnir, the Valknut, a wolf, a raven or Yggdrasil. Thor's hammer amulets were worn across the Viking world for protection.

What is the most popular Viking pendant?

Mjolnir, Thor's hammer, is the most iconic and popular Viking pendant. It was worn for protection and strength and remains the best-known Norse symbol today.

What are Viking necklaces made of?

Ours are made from 925 sterling silver, bronze or stainless steel, on metal chains or leather and cord. Silver and bronze are best for detail and an heirloom feel, while stainless steel is the most durable for everyday wear.

What does a Mjolnir necklace mean?

Mjolnir is the hammer of Thor, god of thunder. As a pendant it stands for protection, strength and faith, and Thor's hammer amulets were worn for these reasons throughout the Viking Age.

Do Viking necklaces 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.

Can I wear a Viking pendant on a leather cord?

Yes. Many pendants suit either a metal chain or a leather cord, and some come with a cord for a more rugged look. You can often swap the chain to match your style.

Is a Viking necklace a good gift?

Yes. A pendant suits any wearer with no sizing to worry about, and each symbol carries its own story, so you can match the meaning to the person you are giving it to.

Personalise it: translate your name into runes with our free Rune Translator, then ask us about custom rune engraving.