Horseshoes: Luck, Legend, Lasting Style for Horse Lovers
Horseshoes have long been symbols of luck, protection, and good fortune—but where did this symbolism come from? Across cultures and generations, stories have passed down the idea that the humble horseshoe holds magical powers. Let’s take a ride through some of the most fascinating origins of this belief.
The Tale of the Blacksmith and the Devil (Ireland)
Like all good legends, this one begins with a blacksmith hard at work in his forge. One day, the Devil himself appears, demanding a pair of horseshoes. Recognizing the Devil, the clever blacksmith seizes the opportunity—he pulls a red-hot shoe from the fire and nails it directly into the Devil’s hooves.
The Devil, overcome with pain, rips them off and flees, swearing never to return to a blacksmith’s shop again. And so began the tradition of hanging a horseshoe above the entrance of a home to ward off evil spirits.
The Power of Iron
The material of the horseshoe—iron—has its own storied background. In early European folklore, iron was believed to possess magical properties strong enough to repel evil. Tales tell of mischievous fairies, spirits, and witches, all of whom feared iron.
In fact, witches were supposedly so afraid of iron horseshoes, they opted to ride broomsticks instead of horses! (Mystery solved.)
The Magic of the Number Seven
The number 7 holds a special place in cultures across the globe: seven days in a week, seven seas, seven continents, seven colors in a rainbow, seven musical notes, seven chakras, and seven wonders of the world. That’s seven sevens!
Some link the luck of the horseshoe to this magical number—suggesting that seven nail holes in a horseshoe help reinforce its protective power. Although, as a horse person, I’ll admit—most real horseshoes have eight holes. Has the design changed over time? Or perhaps the legend simply outshines the math.
How to Hang a Horseshoe
There’s a bit of debate over how a lucky horseshoe should be hung. Some believe it should be upright, in a “U” shape, with the heels up—to catch and hold good luck. Others prefer it facing downwards, allowing luck and blessings to pour down on anyone who walks beneath it.
Whichever way you choose, hanging a horseshoe above your door is a time-honored tradition for bringing good fortune and keeping the bad vibes out.
Welcome Luck, Good Fortune—and Elegance—into Your Life
Horseshoe jewelry is more than a style statement—it's a wearable talisman rich with history and meaning. From necklaces and earrings to bracelets, rings, and even belt buckles, these pieces let you carry a piece of equestrian magic with you wherever you go.
Whether you’re a lifelong rider or simply drawn to the mystique of the horseshoe, this jewelry connects you to a legacy of tradition, protection, and grace.
Let it be your symbol of strength, luck, and timeless beauty.
1,000 Years of Good Luck Horseshoes
Horseshoe & Equestrian Bracelets
