This is the Alchemy Gothic "Helm of Awe Ravenskull" pendant. This raven's skull has been engraved upon its head with the Icelandic stave symbol, 'Aegishjalmur'.
The Helm of Awe, a type of rune stave, is magical spell of protection used by early Vikings. According to a number of legends, this apotropaic (protective) symbol, when worn between the eyes, was intended to confer invincibility in the wearer or instill fear in one’s enemies.
According to tradition, the Aegishjalmur "helm of awe" should be worn over the forehead, perhaps scratched or drawn on the inside of one's helmet. Its purpose is protection and "irresistibility" in battle (as in the Borg's, "Resistance is futile."). One could also draw it on one's forehead with saliva or blood. It could be used as a tattoo.
It comes on a black leather cord necklae with clasp.
The pendant is 2 1/8" long.
The metal used in the manufacture of all Alchemy's pewter products is the highest grade, 92% tin alloy, (to BSS5140 standard), known as "English Pewter". Some manufacturers misleadingly use the term 'pewter' to describe alloys containing lead. This results in inferior, more easily made products which are heavier, softer and of a darker colour, and are much more prone to tarnishing and disfigurement. This WILL NOT happen with Alchemy Gothic jewelry.
I personally wear Alchemy products and have for many years and I can attest to the fact that their jewelry is of the highest quality and very intricately detailed.
***Important*** Please allow at least 12 BUSINESS DAYS for your Alchemy order to ship out since each item is special ordered for you.