Pendant facts for kids
A pendant is a special kind of object that usually hangs down from a necklace. The word "pendant" comes from the Latin word "pendere," which means "to hang down." Think of it as a charm or a decorative piece that adds style to your outfit!
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Different Kinds of Pendants
Over many years, people have made pendants in lots of different shapes and for many different reasons. Let's explore some of them!
Amulets: For Protection
An amulet is an object that people believe has special powers. Many amulets are worn as pendants around the neck. People thought these objects could protect them from danger or bad luck.
Talismans: For Good Fortune
A talisman is a bit like an amulet. It is also an object believed to have supernatural powers. However, while an amulet protects you, a talisman is meant to bring you good things. It might give you special skills or good luck.
Lockets: Holding Memories
A locket is a small, special pendant that can open up. Inside, there's a tiny space. People often put small, important things inside, like a tiny photograph or a curl of hair. Lockets are usually worn on a necklace. Sometimes, you might see them on a charm bracelet too.
Medallions: Awards and Blessings
A medallion is often a round, coin-shaped piece of metal. It is usually worn as a pendant around the neck. Medallions are often given as awards for achievements. They can also be special recognitions or religious blessings.
Pendants That Are Tools
Some pendants are not just for decoration. They are actually useful tools! For example, the Maori people of New Zealand wear pounamu pendants. These are often carved from greenstone and can be tools. Other pendants can be Shepherd's whistles, boatswain's whistles, or even small musical instruments called ocarinas.
In the early 2000s, jewelers even started putting USB flash drives into pendants. This made it easy to carry your digital files with you!
Images for kids
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Pendants made from beautiful amber.
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The Pushpaka Thali is a wedding pendant used by Pushpaka Brahmins in Kerala, India.
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This wedding pendant with 21 beads is used by Saint Thomas Christians in India.
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Ancient Indonesian pendants.
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A carved agarwood imperial pendant from the Qing dynasty in China.
See also
In Spanish: Colgante para niños
