Copyright 1995 by Grolier Electronic Publishing, Inc. amulet An amulet is an object used as a charm, either to protect against harm or to promote good fortune. It is usually worn or carried on the person but may be attached to animals, houses, automobiles, or other property. Examples of amulets include the scarab of ancient Egypt, the horseshoe and other iron objects used against witchcraft in early European tradition, the blue beads used in some Islamic countries to guard against the EVIL EYE, and charms for good luck, such as the rabbit's foot. Stones, horns, bones, figurines, coins and medallions, and many other objects are used as amulets in a great range of cultures. Persons especially vulnerable, such as children or the sick, are often thought to need amulets. Some amulets bear religious images or texts; others have astrological significance. The source of power attributed to amulets may be defined within a particular belief system or may remain an obscure supernatural influence. Christian Clerk Bibliography: Bonner, Campbell, Studies in Magical Amulets (1950); Budge, E. A. Wallis, Amulets and Superstitions (1930; repr. 1978 as Amulets and Talismans); Gonzalez-Whippler, M. G., Complete Book of Amulets and Talismans (1991).