Magical Arts and Crafts Owl and Moon Hair Pin

Owls are majestic and magical creatures. However, in many cultures they have traditionally been associated with a darker, more witchy side and were once thought to symbolize bad omens and death. Thankfully, that malevolent perception changed during the Victorian era when owls began to make their way into children's nursery rhymes. Soon, these beautiful birds were everywhere (particularly in the Arts and Crafts movement) -- adorning lamps and andirons, decorating library buildings and, of course, popping up in jewelry. Many Victorians wore owls as a symbol of wisdom and protection. However, this particular pairing of the owl and the crescent moon takes the magic up a level, as both are believed to have supernatural powers. In the 19th century, crescent moons in jewelry often represented the glorification of the feminine moon goddess, Selene, and symbolized female empowerment. Crescent moons also represented change -- just as the moon cycles through phases, so does life. This powerful sy