Metal: sterling silver (925)
Weight: approx. 19 g (0,67 oz)
Vegvísir Viking Pendant - https://berloga-workshop.com/catalog/84-vegvisir-pendant-viking-pendant-sterling-silver-viking-necklace-runic-compass-pendant-scandinavian-norse-pendant-viking-jewelry.html
The Ringerike style originated from the Mammen style in the early 11th century, marking a period when the practice of constructing stone monuments was on the rise.
Unlike other Viking Age styles, the Ringerike style is not associated with a specific discovery site. Instead, it takes its name from Ringerike, a region situated slightly north of Oslo. This area provided an abundance of sandstone, which was commonly utilized in the creation of numerous runestones.
The Vegvisir, known as the runic compass or the Icelandic runes/Nordic compass, consists of eight rune staves. It is revered as a symbol of protection and guidance, believed to have served as a compass for Vikings. In Icelandic, "vegvisir" translates to "wayfinder" or "sign post."
While commonly referred to as the Viking compass and linked to the exploratory voyages of the Vikings during the Viking Age, the origin of the Vegvisir remains a subject of debate.
The eight Icelandic rune staves comprising the Vegvisir are thought to represent the cardinal directions (North, South, West, East) as well as the intercardinal directions (Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast).
According to some accounts, a nail placed at the center of the Vegvisir could assist with navigation by indicating directions through the position of its shadow at specific times of the day, aiding Vikings in their maritime travels.
Interestingly, certain legends mention that Icelandic ships would bear the Vegvisir, also known as the Nordic compass, to facilitate their return and ensure a safe journey home.
In modern times, the Vegvisir serves as a symbol of Icelandic culture and is embraced by practitioners of the Asatru faith as a representation of spiritual guidance and personal identification.
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