During the Viking Era both men and women enjoyed wearing jewellery as an indicator of wealth and social status; wearing the pieces kept their wealth safe and secure. Jewellery was also used as a currency for trade; therefore, most Vikings preferred their jewellery made from precious metals. Depending on the transaction, jewellery may have been broken up to accommodate for a more appropriate price/deal.
Pendants and amulets also held spiritual connections and were said to have bestowed the owner with protection and support. Elf Shot pendants, such as this example, were worn to warn off invisible elves from shooting arrows on people or animals. Thus resulting in internal shooting pains including cramping and arthritis. It was believed that men shot by these invisible arrows would not recover and soon die. There would be no physical evidence of the wounds on the skin, allowing for more credibility to the elves and arrow theory. Therefore, pendants were highly valued for the protection granted to their owners.
