Animals have long been considered the spiritual companions of humankind. According to indigenous traditions in Oaxaca, the alebrije are spirits which take the form of both fantastical creatures and familiar animals that guide, accompany and protect individuals throughout their lives.
Well-known examples of alebrijes include the Pegasus, hare, eagle, jaguar and rooster. Each symbolises a particular form of protection and guidance, and physical representations of the spiritual companions are realised in brightly coloured, otherworldly designs.
Similarly, according to European folklore from the medieval and early modern periods, familiar spirits are supernatural entities which serve as spiritual guardians and protectors to those who practice magic or divination. They are commonly represented by animals, and one of the most popular representations of a witch’s familiar is the humble black cat, which is why the adorable creature of night came to be falsely associated with bad luck.
The signs of the Zodiac in both Western and Eastern traditions are largely represented by animals, ranging from the courageous lion and the wise crab to the fiery ram. The Egyptians worshipped anthropomorphic animals as deities, while Buddhists believe that animals are fully sentient beings which have a level of moral understanding linked to the concept of rebirth.
We could go on, but the fact of the matter is that animals play an incredibly important role in the spiritual and theological history of humankind. No matter what tradition you belong to, or which animal you believe your innermost spirit to be represented by, chances are you feel quite strongly about your zoological companion.
Whether you’re in the market to commemorate your spirit animal with a piece of bespoke jewellery, or simply adore the zoological fun elicited by a darling bluebird pendant, we’ve curated a selection of the best animal-themed jewellery below.
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Annoushka Mythology Bluebird Charm Pendant
Annoushka Ducas’ eponymous brand is known for producing immaculate fine jewellery which is full of personality and designed to tell a story. This divine bluebird charm pendant is part of the Mythology collection, which showcases a variety of other popular animal charms including an elephant and a ladybird – all of which have elegant moveable features.
The featured bluebird charm, however, is handcrafted in 18ct yellow gold with blue sapphires, topaz, black diamonds and a freshwater seed pearl clutched between the bird’s feet. The bird is said to symbolise peace, love, renewal and happiness and its sculpted wings open to reveal a locket space.
Buy now £3900.00, Annoushka
Gigi Clozeau 18ct Gold Ladybug Pendant
Crafted in Gigi Clozeau’s family workshop in the South of France, this lovely ladybird 18ct gold silhouette is complemented by lovely red enamel dots. It features an attached bail clasp for locking onto your favourite necklace or bracelet. Purchase this as a gift for the good luck charm in your life.
Buy now £175.00, Liberty
Harris Reed Coiled Serpent Ring
Whether you’re in the process of shedding old skin, or simply relate to the cunning nature of a serpent, this wrap-around snake ring from the Harris Reed x Missoma collaboration belongs in your jewellery collection. It’s crafted from durable 18ct recycled gold plated on brass.
Buy now £105.00, Missoma
Lars Cat Coin Necklace, Gold Vermeil
Cat lovers are a very particular breed and tend to become obsessive about all things feline-related. No judgement here. This lovely gold vermeil pendant is sure to reflect said obsession, with a tiny heart featured on the cat’s chest and ‘love’ stamped subtly across the pendant.
Buy now £368.00, Wolf & Badger
Y/Project Spider Cuff
Parisian streetwear brand Y/Project have created the cuff of the season with this marvellously sinewy spider design. Made from metal with a shiny silver plating, it’s a must-have for statement jewellery lovers looking to embrace their gothic side.
Buy now £280.00, Harrods
The Nemean Lion Ring
The Nemean Lion was said to be one of the strongest creatures in Greek mythology, sent by the goddess Hera to guard the temple of Zeus in Nemea. Its golden fur was impervious to attack, and its claws were sharper than human swords – hence Hercules was the only figure able to take the majestic creature down. This beautiful ring has been hand-sculpted with 22ct gold vermeil and a beautiful lapis-lazuli gemstone.
Buy now £153.00, Wolf & Badger
Gold T-Rex Dinosaur Hoop Earrings
Palaeontologists and general dino enthusiasts will rejoice for these glorious T-Rex hoop earrings by Scream Pretty. Made with 18ct gold-plated recycled sterling silver, we love the fact that these miniature creatures are gently suspended from a classic huggie hoop.
Buy now £50.00, Wolf & Badger
Cece Jewellery 18ct Gold A Traveller’s Tale Signer Ring
We’ve yet to come across a signet ring as intricately designed and kaleidoscopic as this jaw-dropping piece by Cece Jewellery. Part of a mythologic ‘Traveller’s Tale’ collection, it’s crafted from solid 18ct cold and features a hand-painted enamel horse mid-leap. It also features an engraved horseshoe with brilliant-cut diamonds and a frosted finish, as well as hand-painted floral enamel details at the sides.
Buy now £9700.00, Liberty
Ysso Equestrian Dream Necklace
Embrace your inner Cowboy with this equestrian necklace from Grecian jewellery creator Ysso. Described as an enduring symbol of strength and loyalty, this lovely pendant is an ode to Classical and Hellenistic artwork and is named after the legendary Aethon – one of Ares’ four immortal horses.
Buy now £290.00, Ysso
The Great Frog Bat Ring
Designed for the modern goth, The Great Frog has been producing handcrafted jewellery across London, New York and Los Angeles since 1972. They’re known in particular for their extra-large silver rings which often depict animals. This spooky bat is a heritage design which has recently been re-launched to celebrate the ultimate creature of the night.
Buy now £150.00, The Great Frog
Lobster Love Necklace
Bring the summer vibes all-year-round with July Child’s bold and bubbly Lobster Love necklace, which features extra-large faux pearls.
Buy now £87.00, July Chid
Collier Azure Charms Flash
Though on the more expensive end of the costume jewellery spectrum, we couldn’t help but include this charming statement piece from By Marie. Plated with 24ct gold, the hand-enamelled fish pendants and wooden horn charm give this chunky necklace a surreal elegance.
Buy now £288.00, By Marie
