The Vikings were renowned warriors, fearless and awe-inspiring.

Medieval accounts tell of a powerful symbol – the Aegishjalmur - that was marked on warriors' foreheads before going into battle.

The word 'Aegishjalmur' is rooted in Norse mythology and is made up of 'Aegis' or Shield, and 'Hjalmr' or Helm, which in this case means a position of control, as in the helm of a ship. The Helm of Awe was said to have magic that would empower the warriorsand make them invincible.An epic poem of that age relates how:

“The Helm of Awe

I wore before the sons of men

In defense of my treasure;

Amongst all, I alone was strong,

I thought to myself,

For I found no power a match for my own."

The symbol itself is a perfect graphic representation of its intent: Eight pitchfork-like tridents with all 24 points facing outward creating an impenetrable defensive barrier to defend the inner central circle.A mighty symbol of protection to help you get through just about any kind of day.

The bold geometry of the symbol – which stands in sharp relief against its recessed background - makes these earrings striking. The background has a slight hammered finish and is accented withdark, antiqued finishto really make the symbol stand out.