✨ Alkaid, or η Ursa Major Borealis is the brightest star of the Ursa Major constellation (also known as the Big Dipper). It’s a “fixed” star, meaning that unlike other observable celestial bodies, her position doesn’t seem to move from year to year (in reality it does, but extremely slowly). Fixed stars rise & set at around the same time from year to year! Because of this, they were very important to humans from the very beginning of our existence, for all sorts of things: agriculture (deciding when to sow the crops), navigation (orienting yourself with no land in sight!), and many other uses! Slowly left to incubate (one could say hibernate) for close to a year, these extremely potent talismans have been cherished and are now ready to debut as bears (the symbol of Alkaid) are starting to come out of hibernation for spring!
🧿 Alkaid is a bright, beautiful fixed star known for breaking and protecting from curses and spiritual attacks. Her name comes from the Arabic Ka’id Banat al Na’ash, "the leader of the mourners". The ancient myth associated with Ursa Major is that of Callisto, one of goddess Artemis’ nymphs. Callisto was seduced by Zeus who took the appearance of Artemis. Having broken her vow of chastity, Artemis turned Callisto into a bear. As she was hunted down by her own son who’d mistak,n her for a real bear, Callisto was turned into a constellation by Zeus in order to protect her — the Ursa Major constellation we can see in our skies. As explained in the article I have written on the subject, Alkaid symbolises larger themes: protection of nature and of sacred and wild spaces, the mourning and sacrifices we make for our own…
✨ Alkaid is a prime star for protection and safety. Renaissance mage Cornelius Agrippa says that an Alkaid talisman “availeth against incantations, and maketh him who carrieth it secure in his travels.” Hermes, mythical figure whom the text “On The 15 Fixed Stars” was attributed to says of Alkaid that it “is strong against incantations and against assassins and gives security from them, and if with this is placed the tooth of a wolf it protects also from robbers and thieves.” Made of obsidian and silver, the talismans presented are ideal companions for those who wish to avert curses and the Evil Eye. The traditional symbol of Alkaid is a She-Bear — powerful, protective and fierce, but also tender & nurturing towards her young. As my devotional relationship with Alkaid grew stronger, I also came to visualise her as an orca. Orcas are extremely intelligent & sensitive animals who live in pods of 40+ members: they are led by a matriarch, a grandmother orca who watches over the family and knows the ways of the sea. A wise and nurturing spirit, Alkaid is a comforting and powerful leader whom you can rely on for protection and help, especially during difficult times.
🧿 These talismans are best suited for: those who seek protection, especially against evil eye and other jealous or harmful intentions, those who wish to counter spiritual attacks, and those who wish to establish a strong protection ritual. Alkaid is excellent for any type of cleansing work and for getting rid of stagnant or latching energy — the talisman can be used regularly to invoke protection and cleansing residual negative energy. As the “Leader of the Mourners” star, Alkaid can be invoked as support during periods of grief and mourning, in order to bring comfort after the passing or estrangement of a loved one. Those in need of maternal comfort and gentle embrace/guidance can use this talisman as a powerful supporter and nurturer through difficult periods of time. Acting both as a cleanser and a comforter, Alkaid is ideal for those who seek a soft shell of protection ❤️🩹
✨ The Alkaid talismans offered are all made of obsidian (a gem renowned for protection and cleansing). These talismans were engraved with the sigil of Alkaid and appropriately consecrated (ensouled) according to the rites of traditional astrological magic on May 28, 2023 (see chart in the gallery). The conditions is that the tropical degree of Alkaid (27°16 Virgo) is culminating on the Midheaven, while the Moon in Virgo (20°) applies to conjoin it. The Moon is particularly well placed in this election as she applies to sextile Venus in Cancer. Talismans are a co-creation of reality: they are powerful devices which enable you to create and nurture a relationship with a deity or (planetary) spirit. You can read more about the rationale behind talismans and their use here. Upon receiving your talisman, you will be invited to make a personal consecration to “introduce yourself” to the spirit that it hosts (to conduct a small, personal ceremony that will make it yours). After your purchase, you will receive an email with a digital consecration guide to use. As your relationship with the spirit grows, you will understand and experience its benefits in your life more deeply. You are encouraged to regularly re-consecrate your talisman for a mutually beneficial relationship.
🧿 Fixed star talismans are compatible with all charts, regardless of placements (don’t hesitate to contact me should you have any questions!). All talismans presented are handmade with natural stones corresponding to the nature of Alkaid (obsidian) and metals (sterling silver). Keep your silver jewelry shining bright by avoiding exposure to water and chemicals. Regularly polish it with a soft cloth to maintain its finish and store it separately to prevent scratches. Talismans are magically ensouled and carefully crafted for the highest degree of potency — please note that I cannot guarantee the effects of a talisman. All sales are final, and payment must be received in full before the talisman is sent. A talisman cannot be exchanged or refunded. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact me using the contact form!
This talisman is sold as curio only.
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