Viking jewellery
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
What is Nordic jewellery? – Characteristics and distinguishing features
Viking jewellery, Nordic jewellery or Viking-era jewellery – these terms describe jewellery that was created and worn in the Scandinavian region between the 8th and 11th centuries. What distinguishes it from Celtic or Roman jewellery of the same period are, above all, the characteristic animal motifs: animals tightly intertwined, often barely recognisable as such, whose limbs are transformed into abstract interlaced patterns. This ornamentation runs through the entire spectrum, from simple bronze pendants to elaborately engraved silver bangles.
Another typical feature is the granulation technique: tiny beads of gold or silver were soldered onto the surface, creating a three-dimensional effect through light and shadow. Knot motifs – ranging from simple braided bands to complex symmetrical patterns – also form part of the distinctive repertoire of this jewellery tradition.
The Vikings were widely travelled traders and warriors, and their jewellery reflects this cosmopolitan outlook. Byzantine influences are evident in enamelled surfaces and pearl work, whilst Islamic trade routes brought silver coins and filigree techniques to the North. Celtic braided knot traditions overlap with Scandinavian animal motifs. So, anyone looking to buy Nordic jewellery will find a style that draws on many cultures – yet remains unmistakably unique.
Motifs and symbols in Viking jewellery – mythology meets craftsmanship
No motif is more common in Viking jewellery than Thor’s hammer (Mjölnir). Worn as an amulet, it promised protection, strength and fertility – archaeological finds from across the Nordic region attest to its prevalence in virtually all social classes. Whether simply cast or richly adorned with animal ornamentation: Mjölnir pendants are among the best-known symbols of the Viking Age and are just as prevalent today in Viking necklaces and pendants as they are in historical museum finds.
Odin’s symbols form the second major group of motifs: the Valknut, three interlocking triangles, is associated with the father of the gods and death in battle. Odin’s ravens Hugin and Munin – thought and memory – are found on pendants and rings. The spear Gungnir completes the repertoire of Odinic iconography.
Animal motifs characterise Viking jewellery on a deeper level: the Midgard Serpent Jörmungandr, which encircles the world, inspired sinuous serpentine forms in bracelets and neck rings. Dragon and wolf motifs – the latter referring to Fenrir – appear on brooches, pendants and belt fittings. Runes, as written and magical symbols, were engraved or worked in relief; they represent individual terms, protective formulas or the personal names of their wearers.
For re-enactment and LARP, these motifs provide a solid factual foundation: anyone who knows which symbol they are wearing and what it means can imbue their outfit with genuine historical knowledge – not merely for decorative effect.
Materials in Viking jewellery – from bronze to amber
| Material | Historical context | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Historical | Brooches, pendants, bracelets – everyday jewellery for the general population |
| Silver | Historical | Bracelets, neck rings, pendants – middle and upper classes; also used as currency (Hacksilber) |
| Gold | Historical | Rare, symbols of authority – wealthy men and women, chieftains |
| Bone & wood | Historical | Simple jewellery, combs, pins – poorer sections of the population |
| Amber | Historical | Beads, pendants – a major Nordic export, of Baltic origin |
| Glass | Historical | Glass beads for brooch chains and necklaces – available in both multicoloured and plain designs |
| Stainless steel | LARP / Modern | Sturdy everyday pieces, easy to care for, corrosion-resistant |
| Sterling silver (925) | Modern | High-quality replicas and handcrafted pieces for re-enactment and everyday use |
Bronze and silver were the most commonly used materials among the general Viking population. Gold was reserved for the wealthy and appears in archaeological finds from the graves of chieftains and kings. Glass beads – often imported from the Mediterranean or Islamic world, or made in their style – played an important role in Viking brooches and were passed on as trade goods. Amber from the Baltic region was one of Scandinavia’s most sought-after export goods; it is found as beads or pendants in many grave finds.
Viking jewellery for re-enactment, LARP and everyday wear – Which tier suits you?
Stylised pendants, rings and bracelets made of stainless steel or simple bronze – ideal for your first medieval market, a carnival costume or as a gift. The motifs are recognisable and the workmanship is solid. No in-depth prior knowledge is required to use these to complement a authentic Viking outfit.
Handcrafted or cast pieces in bronze and silver with historically inspired motifs – Mjölnir pendants, snake bracelets, filigree brooches. This category is suitable for LARP players and market visitors who value attention to detail without requiring archaeological accuracy. Can be combined with Viking clothing and Viking belts.
Archaeologically inspired replicas made from historically documented materials – sterling silver, cast bronze based on archaeological finds, authentic brooches. For re-enactors appearing at events with a focus on authenticity. Suitable additions: Viking brooches, hair ornaments and beard beads, historically crafted neck rings.
What jewellery did Vikings wear? – The main types of jewellery
Necklaces, pendants & amulets
Mjölnir pendants, Valknut amulets, animal figures and rune pendants were worn on simple leather straps or twisted silver wires. Wearers often combined several pendants on a single chain. Viking necklaces and pendants are the most popular introduction to Nordic jewellery.
Bracelets & bangles
Open bracelets made of twisted silver wire or cast bronze served not only as jewellery but also as hack silver – they could be broken off and used as currency. Viking bracelets are available in a wide range, from entry-level pieces to replicas.
Brooches & Brooch Chains
Oval brooches made of bronze or silver held the shoulder straps of the outer garment together and were typical women’s jewellery. Brooch chains featuring glass beads, pendants and amulets were stretched between two brooches – a very characteristic element of Viking-era women’s attire.
Finger rings
Simple open rings made of bronze or silver, sometimes with animal heads at the ends or engraved runes. Viking rings were worn by men and women alike – archaeologically attested in almost all grave finds.
Ear & hair jewellery
Contrary to popular belief, Vikings did not wear large earrings in the modern sense – simple wire rings, however, are documented. Today, Viking earrings and beard beads complement any Viking costume with authentic flair.
Neck rings & torques
Solid, twisted neck rings made of silver or gold were status symbols awarded to warriors as a reward. Their simple, powerful form makes them one of the most expressive elements of a Viking outfit for re-enactment and LARP today.
What is Norwegian jewellery called? – Regional styles and sites
Viking jewellery / Nordic jewellery
In a historical context, the term ‘Norwegian jewellery’ refers to Viking-era jewellery or Scandinavian jewellery from the Migration Period through to the early Middle Ages. Typical of Norwegian finds are solid silver arm rings and pendants featuring animal ornamentation. In the modern scene, the terms Nordic jewellery, Scandinavian jewellery and Viking jewellery are largely used interchangeably.
Gotland style and oval brooches
The Swedish Baltic Sea island of Gotland is one of the richest sites for Viking-era jewellery finds in the world. Gotlandic bronze oval brooches – often richly decorated with animal motifs – are the most characteristic element of women’s Viking-era attire. They have been found in sites from Ireland to Russia, demonstrating the extent of Viking trade routes.
Haithabu – Trading Metropolis of the North
Today’s Schleswig, known in the past as the trading centre of Haithabu (Hedeby), was a hub where stylistic influences from the North, the Frankish Empire and the Islamic world converged. Finds from this site illustrate particularly clearly the syncretism of Viking jewellery: imported beads, local casting moulds, and Byzantine-influenced fittings.
Birka – Swedish trading centre
The burial grounds at Birka near Stockholm yield exceptionally well-preserved finds of Viking-era jewellery. In particular, the women’s graves, containing fully preserved brooch chains, glass beads and oval brooches, provide a precise picture of how Viking jewellery appeared within the overall context of the attire.
Hiddensee gold jewellery – evidence from southern Scandinavia
The Hiddensee gold jewellery – found on the Baltic Sea island of Hiddensee – is regarded as one of the most significant examples of Viking-era goldsmithing in the German-speaking world. The pieces are likely of South Scandinavian, possibly Jutlandic, origin and demonstrate the standard achieved by Viking goldsmiths in the 10th century.
Viking jewellery in our range – an overview at a glance
The range of Viking jewellery covers all the key categories: necklaces and pendants, bracelets, rings, earrings, brooches, brooch chains, and beard and hair ornaments. Complementary accessories such as Viking bags and jewellery accessories round off the range.
For a harmonious overall look, it is advisable to coordinate jewellery and clothing: an oval brooch needs a matching outer garment, whilst a torque looks most striking over a plain linen shirt. If you are combining several pendants, you should ensure that the materials and historical periods are consistent – bronze and silver together are historically documented, whilst modern stainless steel pieces are more suited to LARP and everyday contexts.
Viking jewellery combines historical knowledge with genuine comfort – whether you’re looking for a single amulet for everyday wear or want to accessorise your complete Viking outfit with matching brooches, bracelets and neck rings. Browse through our range and be inspired by the diversity of Nordic jewellery art.
Frequently asked questions
Vikings wore neck rings and torques, pendants featuring mythological motifs such as Thor’s hammer (Mjölnir), open bracelets made of silver or bronze, finger rings, brooches for fastening clothing, as well as brooch chains with glass beads and amulets. Both men and women wore jewellery – women in particular were known for wearing pairs of oval brooches on the shoulder straps of their outer garments. Jewellery served decorative, religious and economic functions in equal measure: silver bracelets could be cut into small pieces and used as currency.
Nordic jewellery refers to jewellery from the Scandinavian region, which was mainly produced and worn during the Viking Age (approximately 8th–11th centuries). Characteristic features include animal styles with intertwined animal figures, interlaced knot patterns, granulation techniques, and motifs from Norse mythology such as Thor’s hammer, runes or Odin’s symbols. The terms ‘Nordic jewellery’, ‘Scandinavian jewellery’ and ‘Viking jewellery’ are now largely used interchangeably.
Historically accurate jewellery from Viking-era Norway is referred to as Viking-era jewellery or Scandinavian jewellery. In the modern scene and in the trade, the terms Nordic jewellery, Viking jewellery and Scandinavian jewellery are commonly used and describe the same stylistic category. Regional variants such as the Gotland style or Haithabu finds refer to specific archaeological contexts within this overarching tradition.
The most commonly used materials were bronze and silver, which were widespread amongst the general population. Gold was reserved for wealthier wearers. Poorer classes made jewellery from bone, wood or clay. Amber from the Baltic region was a significant Nordic export and was crafted into beads and pendants. Glass beads – often imported from the Mediterranean region – played a particularly important role in brooch chains. Modern Viking jewellery frequently uses stainless steel or sterling silver (925) as a durable equivalent to historical materials.
Historically authentic Viking jewellery is characterised by animal motifs featuring intertwined animal figures, interlaced patterns, granulation (tiny soldered beads) and mythological motifs such as Thor’s hammer, runes or serpent forms. Archaeological replicas are based on actual finds from sites such as Birka, Haithabu or Gotland and are made from bronze or silver. For LARP and medieval markets, stylised pieces with recognisable Nordic motifs are a good choice; these do not necessarily have to be modelled on a specific artefact.