Observed annually on May 8th, International Viking Day is a modern celebration that honors the history, culture and enduring fascination with the Vikings and Norse mythology. Vikings were Scandinavian seafarers who lived from the late 8th to early 11th centuries. Pre-dating the spread of Christianity in Scandinavia, Norse mythology was the spiritual foundation of Viking society and remains an influence on modern Pagan culture, with many Pagans still honoring deities like Odin, Thor, Freyja and Frigg.

Alchemy England has an enduring legacy of incorporating Viking inspired designs into its collections, reflecting a broder interest in Norse culture and mythology. One of twelve collectibles from the exclusive Alchemy Original Art Home Decor Collection, is the stunning Ossa Ravenhead Masque Ornament. The goddess Ossa is one of the more little-known deities in Norse mythology and provides the inspiration for this magnificent raven-winged helmet. Meticulously hand-painted, this is an item that'll bring a dramatic enhancement to your home.

Thor's hammer, known as Mjölnir, is another iconic symbol in Norse mythology and features across a number of Alchemy England jewelry items, including the Bindrune Hammer Pendant. Handcrafted in fine English pewter, the pendant is incised with powerful bindrunes to command energy, courage, potency and conquest. The hammer itself is a divine tool used to protect order, law and the natural world from chaos and destruction. Wearing the Mjölnir as a necklace is believed to strengthen the driving power of your life force and bring your aura into alignment with the beliefs of Viking culture.

You can also channel your inner Nordic warrior with the incredible Niu Heimar Vegvisir Pendant. The Vegvisir, also known as the Viking compass, is a rune symbol with origins in Icelandic magic, representing the nine realms of Asgard, and believed to be a magical wayfinder. The handmade pendant serves as a powerful talisman, combining historical symbolism with modern craftmanship, making it a poignant accessory for those interested in Viking heritage. Complementing the pendant is Alchemy England's stunning Vegvisir Trinket & Jewelry Box.

Valhalla is another significant part of Norse mythology. Translating from Old Norse as the 'hall of the slain', Valhalla is depicted as the glorious afterlife destination for the bravest warriors and is deeply tied to the Viking worldview of honor, battle and the cycle of life and death. Hanging from a chain and depicting a horned, winged helmet wearng skull, Alchemy England's handcrafted Journey to Valhalla Pendant allows the wearer to carry a symbol of the unrelenting courage and strength of the fallen Einherjar warriors.

A day for those who love all things Viking and Norse to celebrate, International Viking Day has a growing significance in the alternative community. Ideas to commemorate the day include visiting Nordic and Viking museums or watching a Viking inspired movie, with options including Beowulf, Thor, Valhalla Rising and The Northman. Wearing a Viking inspired amulet or talisman is another fantastic idea and the incorporation of Viking motifs into Alchemy England's jewelry and homeware aligns with a growing interest in Norse mythology and Viking history within the alternative scene.

Explore more Viking jewelry and homeware on our International Viking Day page »