The Goddess Hel

The Goddess Hel

 In the land of Niflheim, below the ancient roots of the World Tree Yggdrasil lies a hall called Sleet-Cold in the Kingdom of Helheim far north of Ginnungagap. It is the land of…

Viking Films: The Viking Leader Ivar the Boneless

Viking Films: The Viking Leader Ivar the Boneless

Ivar the Boneless … and the Viking Conquest of England

Ivar the Boneless was leading elite teams of Vikings versus the Irish when news reached him that King Aelle of Northumbria had cast Ragnar Lothbrok into a pit of vipers. The skalds tell us that Ivar silently required the details of his father’s death, and as he listened “his face became red, blue, and pale by turns“.King Aelle had just made an opponent of possibly the most harmful man of the 9th century; and though he did not understand it yet, this action would doom his kingdom and shape the history of England. For Ivar was more than just another rampaging Viking, checking his skills versus the warriors or Ireland while taking hold of their treasures and territory; he was a military genius and a leader of splendid ability.

He likewise might have been a cripple. Historians argue over what the mystical moniker “the Boneless” suggests because our sources offer us only contrasting clues. The skalds state that “just cartilage was where bone ought to have been, however otherwise he grew tall and handsome,” and state it was as if he “had no bones at all.” In the Ragnar Legend Lodbrok, there is a story that he was born with warped legs because of a curse; and there are accounts of his guys carrying him on their shields. He was stated to be very deadly but is typically discussed killing with a bow or upon laying hold of an opponent.

Numerous historians dismiss this concept, emphatic in the belief that the Norse would not have actually followed someone into fight who might not even stand. This appears like a legitimate objection. Before a Viking might even face his enemy in fight, he would have had to row, march, or flight great distances over violent seas and wild surface. In Ivar’s time lots of cultures (specifically the Byzantines, however even the Irish) would impair an unwelcome political figure entirely to disqualify him from rulership. However rare it might be for a physically handicapped individual to end up being a leader in pre-modern times, it was not unprecedented. As not likely as it might be that the Vikings would follow someone with a serious handicap, it may be even more not likely that they would tell stories about such a thing if it had actually not held true.

The secret to Ivar’s acceptance depended on his birth, his capability, and his siblings. The sagas state that Ivar’s siblings carried him with them any place they went and that he totally participated in all their actions.Ivar’s intelligence, cunning, and knowledge were so high that– if we can think the skalds— his bros were reluctant to take on any substantial difficulties without his insight. Therefore as the royal heirs of Lothbrok’s tradition grew, so did Ivar’s approval and worth to his people.

Theories on Ivar’s Name

The weird feature of Ivar’s condition is that many sources barely discuss it (focusing rather on his unbelievable success or savage character). This may support the idea that it was not some glaringly obvious physical variation. Some believe that “boneless” describes impotence, for Ivar “never ever revealed any desire” or had a love for anything besides war, and couple of sources recommend any boys.This absence of children is highly debatable, though since Ivar the Boneless is thought about by many to be the founder of the infamous Ui Imar dynasty of Irish Vikings.

A popular view is that Ivar experienced osteogenesis imperfecta, an uncommon genetic condition that hinders the development of bone cells and can result in defects and fractures. Others take the opposite view, (trying to fix up “boneless” with other accounts of Ivar’s battle expertise) and think that Ivar was versatile and uncommonly fast. If so, it might be possible that Ivar was on the opposite side of the spectrum of connective tissue conditions, having something like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, as some contortionists do. The skalds themselves offer one final recommendation when they state that Ivar was occasionally afflicted by an illness that made him momentarily not able to move. This could be a seizure condition, some other kind of neurological disease like Guillan-Barre syndrome, numerous sclerosis, or perhaps a psychological condition. If it were one of these fluctuating disabilities, that would discuss some tales stating his followers had to bring him while others make no reference of imperfection.

One last theory comes from archeology. A burial mound in Repton, England apparently housed the skeleton of a 9th-century warrior that was allegedly 9 feet tall. The skeleton was at the center of the mound, with signs of high status (weapons, armor, sacrifices, and so on) however likewise indications of posthumous mutilation. The archeologists were eager to connect this stunning find to the legend of Ivar the Boneless. If so, Ivar’s name was paradoxical– considering that his gigantism offered him prominent knuckles and bony functions, his peers called him “boneless” as a joke.

It is our opinion that while the Repton male is definitely an interesting discovery and must have been a terrifying warrior, the links between him and the story of Ivar the Boneless have considerable flaws.

As when it comes to the guard maidens, we discover some modern-day professionals refusing to accept what the Vikings themselves accepted enough to consist of in their stories. There is no way to resolve the mystery. Still, it is essential to keep an open mind to all possibilities.

Since medical conditions and injuries alter with time, it is likewise possible to fix up a number of different theories. Ivar might have been both a mighty warrior and litter-bound at different points in his life.

Ivar and the Great Heathen Army

Whatever his disabilities may have been, by the time Ivar was planning to avenge his father, he was currently a highly-respected leader. Presuming that Ivar (Norse sources), Imar (Irish sources), and Ingvar (English sources) are all the same person, he had actually been leading Vikings for many years. Ireland was a magnet for raiders because it was the center of middle ages monasticism, it was a very rough community even by Dark Age standards.

The number of years Ivar was active is another mystery. The most commonly regurgitated date of his birth is 794– however the mathematics on this does not exercise well. The Imar of the Irish record was a more youthful male, and was first pointed out around the 850’s.

In any case, when Ivar joined his siblings and landed in the English kingdom of East Anglia in 866, he was well-prepared to accomplish what no Viking had before him. Putting together different sources, this “Great Heathen Army” was gathered from everywhere. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle tends to call the Vikings “Danes” whenever it is not calling them heathens. So it is affordable to conclude that Danes were the majority, though our early sources tend to be indiscriminate. The army likewise consisted of considerable representation from Ivar’s Ireland-based teams along with Vikings from as far east as the Danube.

Whatever the particular make-up or organization, this Excellent Heathen Army was so big that most early chroniclers do not even try to count it. It was under a variety of leaders (all the children of Ragnar and after that much more) though Ivar quickly ended up being the most noticeable leader of the early years of the war.

As Sir Winston Churchill puts it, “Saxon England was at this time ripe for the sickle.” The land was divided into numerous competing kingdoms. These were mainly protected by fyrds (citizen-soldiers that just set in motion for 40 days at a time). The English were neither anticipating nor ready for the Vikings that arrived on their east coast in 866.

Soon the Viking army was laying siege Northumbria’s biggest city, Eoforwic. Eoforwic fell rapidly, and the Great Heathen Army set up their base there. They called the location Jorvik, (from which its modern-day name, York, is derived). Jorvik would go on to play an essential function throughout the remainder of the Viking Age.

King Aelle was currently knotted in a civil war with King Osbert. Finally, acknowledging the crisis that was upon them, the 2 put their fight aside and led an unified army to ward off the intruders.

Aelle and Osberht discovered the Vikings gathered in York behind walls that had apparent gaps and week points. The Northumbrian forces attacked. The Vikings retreated into the town, and English pursued them into the close streets. It was there that Ivar sprang his trap. The English hurried into carefully-prepared kill zones, and all escape was cut off. Their forces were cut in half, unable to help each other. Ivar’s Vikings slaughtered the Northumbrians.

Osbert passed away on the field, however according to Norse sources, Aelle was caught. Ivar and the sons of Ragnar performed the Blood Eagle ritual on King Aelle, ripping his lungs from his body and finally avenging the death of their daddy. This was the end of Northumbria as an independent kingdom.

Drunk on triumph, Ivar the Boneless and his armies turned towards Mercia, the heart of Saxon Britain. By now, the English knew that they should be or unite ruined. Wessex, under King Ethelred and Prince Alfred, joined with Mercia and required Ivar to the negotiating table.

Peace only lasted a short time. Ivar broke the treaty of Nottingham, martyred King Edmund of East Anglia, and once again went on the warpath. Later, Ivar changed course and joined his old friend (or “bro,” according to one Irish source) Olaf the White. Together, they squashed the Briton kingdom of Strathclyde in modern-day Scotland. On the other hand, the Great Heathen Army (now led by Ragnar’s bastard boy Ubba and a Danish king called Guthrum) would continue to take a Viking kingdom in Britain without the assistance of their best tactician.

Ivar the Boneless returned to Ireland. As Churchill puts it, “Laden with loot and seemingly invincible, he settled in Dublin and died there peacefully 2 years later on.”

Ivar the Boneless was a remarkable warrior whose ferocity and cruelty sometimes reached psychotic levels. He was accountable for the death of 3 kings (two by routine murder), to say nothing of clergy, soldiers, and civilians. But he was likewise a visionary and a true leader. Before him, the Vikings were mainly raiders who had not done anything more substantial than sack Paris. Ivar changed that, and in just a couple of years, his Vikings had turned 3 English kingdoms into a large Norse state called the Danelaw. In the first siege of Paris, we saw Ragnar’s dream. In Ivar’s accomplishments, we saw this dream totally realized.

We have proof, too, that in those unusual times when he was not combating, Ivar might have been a great ruler. He revealed ethnic and religious tolerance in York and other formerly-Saxon cities he controlled. We are told that he was generous to his topics, “offering with 2 hands.” When he passed away, the pious chronicler wrote: “he slept in Christ.” This statement does not necessarily indicate that the leader of the Great Heathen Army transformed. Still, it shows that his topics respected him– which is no small thing for a conqueror to achieve. If he did all this despite a special needs (or possibly since of it), that is even more fantastic.

About Children of Vikings Boys of Vikings is an online shop offering hundreds of Viking inspired products, consisting of Viking jewelry, Viking clothes,Consuming horns, house design items and more.To discover

more about Viking history, we recommend our 400+ page, self titled book that is available here.

Picture Credits: The

popular’Vikings’TV series has

reanimated a love and interest in all things Viking, including their characters who are loosely based upon historical Vikings such as Ragnar Lothbrok and Ivar the Boneless. References: Rodgers, D. & Noer, K. Sons of Vikings: A Famous History of the Viking Age

. KDP. 2018. Waggoner, B.(Translator). & The Sagas of Ragnar Lodbrok. Troth. 2009 Giles, J.A. (Translator ). The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. G.J. Bell and Sons, London. 1914. Churchill, W. S. The History of the English Speaking Peoples: Volume 1, the Birth of Britain. Barnes and Noble Books p.100-102

  • . 1956Ivar the Boneless. English Monarchs. http://www.englishmonarchs.co.uk/vikings_10.html!.?.! Published 2004. Accessed September 26, 2017 Baker, M. In the Steps of Ivar the Boneless. The
  • History Files. http://www.englishmonarchs.co.uk/vikings_10.html Published November 2003. Accessed September 26, 2017 Norwich, J. J. Byzantium: The Apogee.
  • Knopf. 1992 Learning about osteogenesis imperfect . National Human Being Genome Research Study Institute. https://www.genome.gov/25521839/learning-about-osteogenesis-imperfecta/ Published, July
  • 5, 2017. Accessed September 26, 2017 Beighton, P., Graham, R.
  • , Byrd, H. Hypermobility of joints. New york city. Springer-Verlag-Berlin-Heidelberg p. 103 . 1983 Brown, N. M. Ivory Vikings: The Secret of one of the most Famous Chessmen in the World and the Woman Who Made Them. New York City, St Martin’s
  • Press. 2015 Hanson, Marilee. “Ivar the Boneless “https://englishhistory.net/vikings/ivar-the-boneless/, July 25, 2016. Accessed September 26, 2017 Share this post on social media:

    Ivar the Boneless was a famous Viking leader who lived in the 9th century. Ivar was born in what is now Denmark, and his dad was the legendary Viking leader Ragnar Lodbrok. Ivar is most famous for leading the Terrific Heathen Army, a large force of Viking warriors that got into and conquered much of England during the 9th and 8th centuries. Ivar the Boneless was a famous Viking leader who left an enduring mark on history. Picture Credits: The

    popular’Vikings’TV series has

    reanimated a love and interest in all things Viking, including their characters who are loosely based on historic Vikings such as Ragnar Lothbrok and Ivar the Boneless.

  • What did Viking Villages look like?

    What did Viking Villages look like?

    While we usually think of the Vikings as travelers and raiders, they did not in fact live on their longboats or in military camps. The majority would have spent most of their lives in villages, not too dissimilar from the English and French villages that they were raiding and conquering.

    While the exact composition and nature of Viking villages depend on the region in which they were located, and they also changed over time, there are a few characteristics that are fundamental to Viking villages. Let’s take a look.

    Viking village

    Farmstead, Village, or Fortress

    The size of Viking villages varied greatly.

    In poorer and harsher areas, farmsteads were isolated and separated by relatively long distances. This is especially common in Iceland, where large farmsteads are spotted across the landscape.

    In more prosperous areas, a dozen farmsteads might cluster together to make a small village. The houses of the inhabitants of these small Viking towns were clustered together in the center of the town and enclosed by walls, as much to keep livestock from wandering through as offering protection from enemies. Farm and grazing land then surrounded the village.

    Even in the riches areas where the Vikings built their distinctive defensive ring fortresses, there were usually fewer than 20 longhouses – the name that we giving to Viking houses – within the fortress walls.

    The largest surviving ring fortress, at Aggersberg in Denmark, only had an internal diameter of 240 meters and archaeological remains of 48 houses survive.

    Viking Village in the past with wooden gate

    Location, Location, Location

    The success and prosperity of a Viking village often depended on its location. Most villages were located near the coast or along a fjord. This was, firstly, because fishing was fundamental to their way of life, and secondly because it made transport easier. It was much easier for the Vikings to travel by boat than try and cross the rugged landscape.

    Settlements were also usually placed on high ground to ensure the best possible drainage. While wells were common features of larger villages, farmsteads and smaller villages were almost always located close to a source of fresh running water.

    Location in the map for viking villages

    Household

    Households varied greatly in size depending on the wealth of the inhabitants. Most dwellings were centered on a longhouse, so-called because of their rectangular shape.

    In Norway, these houses were usually built from wood, with turf or thatched roof. Meanwhile, in Scotland, stone houses were more common as wood was relatively scarce. The Vikings were inventive and used whatever materials were available to them locally.

    For poorer people, this may have been their only building. The family would have lived here, and they would have been joined inside by their livestock in the colder winter months.

    Richer farmsteads also had multiple outbuildings, both for sheltering livestock and creating space for other activities, such as brewing.

    The household would have been composed of the owner of the farmstead and his family, which was an extended family of parents and cousins, rather than just the nuclear family.

    Paid hands would also have lived and worked on the farmstead, alongside slaves, which were common in the Viking world. Slaves would have been given the less desirable jobs on the farm.

    Inside of the Viking Hall building

    Commodities

    To make a living, the Vikings fished, sewed crops, and raised cattle. As we have already said, the importance of fish in the Viking diet is one of the main reasons that settlements were always located near the coast of rivers.

    The process of cultivating crops would have been carried out predominantly by women, children, and slaves while the men were off raiding. The most common grains were barley, rye, and oats.

    But by far the most important commodity on any Viking farm was its livestock. In fact, cattle were so important that the word for cattle and the word for money in old Norse are the same, .

    The Strong farmstead in Iceland had barns with stalls for 18 heads of cattle, while Njal’s farm at Bergthorshvoll had stalls for 30 heads. Most Viking farms probably have between 15-40 heads of cattle.

    As well as cows, the Vikings also raised sheep, pigs, goats, and even horses. Horse meat was actually a delicacy among the Vikings until it was outlawed with the rise of Christianity.

    All animals were raised to serve multiple purposes, providing milk to be made into a variety of dairy products, to provide wool, leather, and other essentials, as working animals drawing ploughs and wagons, and of course as meat, both for the dinner table and to make sacrifices to the gods.

    Ordinary life in the viking village and household

    Rhythm of Life

    The rhythm of life in Viking villages would have been very much dictated by the season. Plants were sown in the spring, and the men went raiding in the summer while the rest of the household worked to prepare enough food to see them through the winter months. The dark winter months would have been spent clustered together in the longhouses, telling stories, teaching children, making crafts, and more.

    This is why the festivals that marked the changing of the seasons were so important in the Viking calendar, as they marked real transitions in day-t-day life.

    What do you think? Would you have liked to live in a Viking village?

    Mjolnir pendants in the VKNG Collection – most common symbol worn by the Vikings

    The post What did Viking Villages look like? appeared first on Norse and Viking Mythology.

    Viking Dreads: A Unique and Bold Hairstyle that Embodies Strength and Honor

    Viking Dreads: A Unique and Bold Hairstyle that Embodies Strength and Honor

    Introduction

    When we think of the Vikings, we often picture them as fierce warriors with braided hair, adorned with intricate beads and jewelry. While braids were certainly a common hairstyle among Vikings, a lesser-known but equally impressive style was the Viking dreads. This unique and bold hairstyle not only embodied strength and honor but also had significant cultural and religious significance for the Vikings. In this article, we will explore the history, meaning, and modern-day interpretation of Viking dreads.

    Origins of Viking Dreads

    Dreadlocks have been worn by various cultures throughout history, including ancient Greece and Egypt. However, the Viking dreads, also known as dread-braids or dread-plaits, were a unique style that emerged during the Viking Age (800-1066 AD). The Vikings, known for their exploration and conquests, traveled extensively and interacted with different cultures. They were particularly influenced by the Rastafarian culture of Africa, which is believed to have inspired the Viking dreads.

    Cultural Significance of Viking Dreads

    For the Vikings, hair was not just a fashion statement but had cultural and religious significance. It was believed that hair was a symbol of one’s strength and honor, and cutting it off was considered a sign of weakness or defeat. This belief was so strong that Viking warriors would often cut their hair before battle to prevent their enemies from gaining power by cutting it off. The Vikings also believed that hair was a conduit for spiritual energy, and by wearing their hair in a particular style, they could connect with their gods and ancestors.

    How to Create Viking Dreads

    Creating Viking dreads is not an easy task, and it requires patience and dedication. The process involves allowing the hair to knot and tangle naturally, without using any chemicals or products. The hair is left to grow for several months, and as it grows, it becomes more matted and tangled. The hair is then separated into sections, and each section is twisted and braided to create the dreadlocks. Once the dreadlocks are formed, they are left to mature for several months before they can be adorned with beads, rings, and other decorations.

    Modern Interpretation of Viking Dreads

    In recent years, Viking dreads have gained popularity as a unique and bold hairstyle that embodies strength and individuality. Many people, including celebrities, have embraced this style, and it has become a symbol of rebellion and counterculture. However, it is essential to acknowledge the cultural and religious significance of Viking dreads and respect their origins. While it is acceptable to wear Viking dreads as a fashion statement, it is important to understand and appreciate the historical and cultural context of this hairstyle.

    The Impact of Viking Dreads on Popular Culture

    Viking dreads have made an appearance in various forms of popular culture, including movies, television shows, and video games. They are often depicted as a symbol of strength and honor, and characters who wear Viking dreads are portrayed as fierce warriors or rebels. However, it is important to note that the portrayal of Viking dreads in popular culture is often inaccurate and lacks cultural sensitivity.

    The Future of Viking Dreads

    Viking dreads have a rich history and cultural significance that should be preserved and celebrated. As this hairstyle gains popularity, it is essential to respect its origins and understand its cultural and religious significance. The future of Viking dreads lies in our ability to appreciate and embrace its uniqueness while honoring its history and cultural roots.

    Conclusion

    Viking dreads are a unique and bold hairstyle that embodies strength, honor, and individuality. This hairstyle has a rich cultural and religious significance for the Vikings and should be respected and appreciated for its historical context. As this hairstyle gains popularity in modern times, it is important to remember its origins and cultural significance. By embracing Viking dreads, we can celebrate the diversity and richness of human history and culture.

    FAQs

    1. What is the difference between Viking dreads and traditional dreadlocks? While traditional dreadlocks are often created using hair products and a specific twisting technique, Viking dreads rely on natural knotting and tangling of the hair. Additionally, Viking dreads may be adorned with cultural and religious symbols, such as beads and rings.

    2. Can anyone wear Viking dreads? Yes, anyone can wear Viking dreads. However, it is important to understand and respect the cultural and religious significance of this hairstyle.

    3. How long does it take to create Viking dreads? The process of creating Viking dreads can take several months, as it involves allowing the hair to knot and tangle naturally before twisting and braiding the hair.

    4. What kind of cultural and religious significance do Viking dreads have? For the Vikings, hair was a symbol of one’s strength and honor and was believed to be a conduit for spiritual energy. By wearing their hair in a particular style, such as Viking dreads, they could connect with their gods and ancestors.

    5. How can I style my Viking dreads? Viking dreads can be styled in various ways, including adding beads, rings, and other decorations. They can also be worn up or down, depending on personal preference. However, it is important to respect the cultural and religious significance of this hairstyle and avoid appropriating it.

    Viking runes and their meanings

    divination, background, close-up

    If you’re a fan of Vikings, Norse mythology or just cool ancient stuff in general, then you’ll want to learn more about runes. kay  (CC) One of the most fascinating aspects of Viking culture is their use of runes, as this was one of the ways that Vikings recorded their history, communicated with each other…

    Exploring The History Of Viking Rings: From Medieval Treasures To Modern Inspiration

    Exploring The History Of Viking Rings: From Medieval Treasures To Modern Inspiration

    From King Solomon’s magical ring to the Elizabeth Taylor diamond, throughout the ages rings have long represented great societal shifts and major historical events, but when it comes to the rings of medieval civilisations, the true history of some of the world’s most beautiful jewelry can be obscured. For instance, the Vikings were the wearers of some of history’s most exceptional rings, with intricate designs carved into metals that withstood war, weather and woe. When we walk in the footsteps of the Vikings, we discover an elaborate history, with stories that can be told through rings alone.   

    In this article, not only will we be discussing what made Viking rings so unique, but we’ll also be tracing their history from the medieval world right up to today, where these delicate pieces decorate the hands of hundreds of Nordic history enthusiasts.

     

    Journey Into A Medieval World

    To truly understand the significance of Viking rings, and the role they played in Norse culture, we must first go back in time to a Medieval world – one that was ruled by powerful, seafaring Norsemen whose heroes included Ragnar Lothbrok and Cnut the Great. Known for their fierce and effective military tactics, which allowed them to dominate both in battle and while raiding, the Vikings introduced new battle tactics, the likes of which had never been seen before.

    From shield walls, in which warriors would interlock their shields to create a wall of defense, to a feigned retreat in which they would lure and entrap enemies before turning to pounce, the Vikings sure knew how to hold their own in battle. However, their tribal success and bold lifestyle are reflected not just in their victory triumphs, but also in the artistic culture that was fostered during this period. One of the key factors? Jewelry.

    The Vikings were skilled craftsmen who created beautiful and intricate jewelry pieces from precious metals, most notably the Viking arm ring.

     

    The Viking Arm Ring

    Typically made from silver and decorated with intricate designs, the Viking arm ring is one of the most recognisable pieces from the Medieval period. Arm rings were not just a piece of jewelry; they held great significance and represented much more than personal style – in the Viking Age, they were also a form of currency that could be used for trade, especially between the Vikings and the Sami people of northern Scandinavia.

    These arm rings were also a way to show one’s allegiance or dedication to a particular leader or clan, which was vitally important in a society where loyalty was highly valued, and alliances could make or break one’s position.

     

    Viking Finger Rings

    While the arm ring was a large piece that made a bold statement, the Vikings also used finger rings to tell their story and highlight their symbolic beliefs. These rings were often believed to have protective qualities, and others were worn as a symbol of a particular god or goddess. For example, rings featuring the image of Thor’s hammer were believed to bring protection and good luck to those who were devoted to him.

    These rings were typically made of bronze or silver and were often decorated with simple designs, such as knotwork or animal motifs. Viking finger rings were often worn by both men and women, and were sometimes used as wedding rings.

     

    Viking Ring Making Techniques

    Interested in how the Vikings crafted their rings? Here are three of the most popular methods:

    Filigree

    To craft their jewelry, the Vikings blended methods new and old, taking inspiration from as early as the time of ancient Mesopotamia! Filigree, a technique that involves the twisting or braiding of thin wires of gold or silver into intricate patterns to be soldered onto the surface of a ring, was one of the most popular Nordic styles, and can still be seen on modern adaptations today.

    Granulation

    Granulation is another technique that was used regularly in the making of Viking jewelry. This involves creating small, granular beads of metal and fusing them onto a surface, before arranging the beads in specific patterns to create beautiful designs that can be adapted based on the needs of a tribe.

    Repoussé

    Designed to create a raised edge at the front of a ring, repoussé is a technique that the Vikings relied heavily on for some rings, as it allowed for detailed designs to be effortlessly added to the surface of a ring from the reverse side, which in turn offered more space to properly represent a god or tribe.

     

    A Modern Day Spin On Viking Rings

    Even in modern times, Viking rings are still popular, both for their historical significance and their unique designs. In fact, the rings worn by Nordic tribes are actually growing in popularity in the modern age – many jewelers create Viking-inspired rings that pay homage to the craftsmanship and symbolism of the original Viking pieces.

    One popular design for modern Viking rings is the Valknut symbol, which features three interlocking triangles and is believed to have been a symbol of the god Odin who is often associated with death and the afterlife. Have you spotted the Valknut symbol on any Viking jewelry pieces yet?

     A mans hand is in frame, wearing Viking style rings and picking up an arrow from a set

    How To Style Viking Rings Of Your Own

    If you’re interested in styling Viking rings of your own, there are a few things you can do to create a unique and personal look:

    Choose the right materials: Viking rings were typically made from materials such as silver, gold, bronze, and iron, so choosing a material that speaks to you and fits your personal style should be your number one priority. Try a sterling silver option if you want a ring that is durable and long-lasting without compromising on style.

    Incorporate traditional Viking motifs: Viking art is known for its intricate knotwork, animals, and geometric shapes, so if you want to go for a truly authentic look, consider adding some traditional motifs to your design.  

    Customize the ring size and shape: Viking rings were often chunky and large, but if this isn’t your style then you don’t need to worry. You can customize the size and shape to fit your personal preferences, perhaps by opting for a thinner ring band or a different shape. You can even find serpent shaped rings that are perfect if you’re looking for a piece that’s a little less overwhelming to wear, but still a great conversation starter.

    Consider gemstones or other embellishments: While traditional Viking rings didn’t always include gemstones or other embellishments, you can add these elements yourself to create a unique look. Consider adding a small gemstone in a color that complements the metal, or incorporate other materials like leather or wood for a unique take on Viking jewelry that still allows you to feel close to your Viking heritage.

     

    Ultimately, the key to styling your own Viking ring is to draw inspiration from traditional Viking art and materials, while also incorporating your own personal style and preferences. By staying close to the history, and learning more about who the Vikings were and how they used their jewelry, you can become the most confident version of yourself when you wear your new artwork, and channel the Viking within.

    Your Ultimate Guide to Using Rune Stones

    Are there times of your life where you wish you could simply find the answers to your most pressing questions? Do you ever think about how much better you would feel with a direct line to the wisdom of the cosmos?Life can feel overwhelming, especially when we feel lost or confused. But if you learn…