Many mythologies around the world portray the antlered deer or moose as an elusive and noble beast. In the middle ages, it was used as a metaphor of Christ, protecting people from snakes (i.e., evil). In Celtic religion the stag was a symbol for Cernunnos, the Horned One – the God of Fertility, the protector of all creatures. It was believed moose were part of the fairy world and had magical powers. The mythic stag was often considered as a sacred animal with the spirit of gentleness and softness, a shapeshifter or a harbinger of great destiny. It was believed to have remarkable power of being a visionary, and the desire to bring the vision to fulfilment. In some Middle Asia countries, the stag was intentionally employed in tombs, as it symbolized eternity and immortality, as well as had a meaning of guidance to new homelands.
Moose antler is alleged to foster longevity, prosperity, good luck, wisdom, courage, protection, and positive energy
In China antlered deer or moose is almost always depicted to accompany the God of Longevity – Shou. Thus, it is generally known as a symbol of longevity, though it also has wealth and prosperity connotations to it. The stag is also a symbol of happiness and good fortune, while its name in Chinese is a homonym for the word “abundance”. Grounded to powder antlers are also commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years. It is believed to nourish the yin forces in the body, aid kidney function, invigorate the spleen, strengthen bones and muscles and promote blood flow. In Japanese culture the stag is regarded as a divine messenger of the God. Babylonians associated the celestial stag with the life-giving power of the sun. Native tribes of North America believed moose was a powerful messenger, a totem symbolizing sensitivity, gentleness and intuition. For the Huichol people living in central Mexico, antlered stag is associated with the power to translate the language of the gods to men. They make offerings to the Deer of the Maize to care for their crops, and to the Deer of the Peyote to bring them spiritual guidance and artistic inspiration. In Buddhism, antlered stag symbolizes harmony, happiness, peace and longevity.
Since ancient times, a work of art from antlers is considered as especially respectful gift, as it represents sincere wishes of health, success and wealth
Supernatural and ceremonial uses of antlers could be dated back at least 10.000 years. Generally, antlers were adored as a symbol of masculine or solar power. Ancient myths entitled the colossal moose antlers as the Crown of Courage, symbolizing mental acumen. Quite often designs incorporating antlers were thought to enhance possessor’s ability of picking up on nuance, figuring things out, and displaying intelligence. Ancient Pagans adored stag as the symbol of the God who gives his life to nourish the tribe, and who re-emerges in springtime with velvet antlers. As stags shed and regrow their antlers, the antler has long been tied to the annual death and resurrection of the sun. The antlered stag represented wisdom, nobility, bravery, courage, protection, and the cycle of life (i.e., death and resurrection). Totems from antlers were worn abundantly as a status symbol and also denoting sacred origin. It was believed to give its wearer special powers and lend sacred, unique energy. Native Americans used antler tokens and amulets for protection and blessings they hold.
Whatever You believe, no one can neglect the fact that moose antler is a divine, intriguing material that makes endearing one-of-a-kind jewellery for any occasion. We at MOOSE AMBER are proud to be breathing new life into the designs and trends of handmade jewellery with this indigenous precious material.