28 Types of Tibetan Buddhist Amulets and Their Spiritual Meanings

In Tibetan Buddhism, amulets are more than ornaments — they are sacred symbols of protection, blessings, and inner harmony. For centuries, these spiritual talismans have been worn to guard against negativity, attract good fortune, and remind practitioners of their connection to the divine. At ZenHima, we cherish this timeless heritage by offering authentic handcrafted Tibetan amulets that embody both artistry and devotion.

The Rich Variety of Tibetan Amulets

Tibetan protective charms come in many forms, each carrying its own symbolism, materials, and ritual functions. Based on cultural and historical sources, here are 28 common types of Tibetan Buddhist amulets and their core meanings:

1. Gau (Amulet Box) – A silver or metal locket (square for men, round for women) containing sacred relics or mantras. It symbolizes protection and devotion.
   
   
   
   
2. Nine Palaces & Eight Trigrams Plaque – A fusion of Tantric and I Ching symbolism, balancing cosmic energy and repelling negative influences.
3. Phurba (Vajra Dagger) – A three-edged ritual weapon representing wisdom that cuts through illusion and obstacles.
4. Torka – A bronze and meteoric iron talisman believed to originate from lightning energy, used to avert disasters.
5. Sun God Talisman – Crafted from rare materials symbolizing light and vitality, offering peace and strength.
6. Demon-Subduing Seal – Engraved with vajra or Guru Rinpoche’s seals, designed for exorcising evil forces.
7. Manjushri Amulet – A golden pendant invoking the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, often worn by students for clarity and success.
8. Mini Gau Box – A portable amulet case containing scriptures or miniature statues for daily protection.
9. Zambala Wealth Amulet – Dedicated to the Tibetan God of Wealth, attracting prosperity and abundance.
10. Ten Elephants (Nine Stages of Mind) Diagram – Depicting the stages of meditation and mental purification.
11. Wealth Deity with Elephant Image – Symbol of prosperity and steady advancement.
12. Eight Auspicious Symbols (Ashtamangala) – Representing purity, enlightenment, and spiritual completeness.
13. Eight Auspicious Offerings – Including sacred items like mirrors and longevity grass, used for blessings.
14. Double Vajra (Visvavajra) – Symbol of indestructible power and balance, often carved in temples.
15. Ritual Bell (Drilbu) – Used in Tantric ceremonies to invoke divine sound and awareness.
16. Crescent Knife (Kartika) – A curved blade symbolizing the cutting away of ignorance and attachment.
17. Ritual Axe (Trik) – Combining a vajra handle and axe blade, representing liberation from samsara.
18. Copper Mirror – A small convex charm that reflects and dispels negative energy.
19. Vajra Bell – Ritual bell used with a dorje, embodying wisdom and compassion in union.
20. Vajra Dagger – Similar to the phurba, a symbol of fierce protection.
21. Damaru Drum – A double-sided hand drum used in Tantric practices to summon divine energies.
22. Yak-Flag (Black Banner) – Traditional protective banner seen in monasteries and rituals.
23. Wind Horse Flag (Lungta) – Five-colored prayer flags printed with mantras, spreading blessings through the wind.
24. Tsa Tsa (Clay Stupa or Figurine) – Small clay icons representing Buddha or deities, for offering and blessing.
25. Peace Amulet – A simple charm combining Buddhist and Taoist symbols for peace and safety.
26. Shakyamuni Buddha Pendant – Engraved image of the Buddha, offering serenity and spiritual protection.
27. Vajra Seal Amulet – Featuring vajra imprints symbolizing strength and enlightenment.
28. Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) Seal Amulet – Used for empowerment and spiritual guidance.

Shared Meanings and Modern Relevance

Most Tibetan amulets serve dual purposes: spiritual protection and aesthetic adornment. Traditionally made from silver, bronze, or copper and often inlaid with gemstones, each piece carries a vibration of mantra energy and artistic beauty.

When choosing an amulet, consider:

• Material & Craftsmanship – Hand-engraved or embossed metalwork enhances both durability and sacredness.
• Symbolic Meaning – Select symbols resonating with your intention — protection, wisdom, or prosperity.
• Wearability – Medium-sized pendants or boxes are ideal for daily wear or altar display.

Discover Authentic Tibetan Amulets at ZenHima

At ZenHima, we honor the living heritage of Himalayan Buddhism through genuine, handcrafted pieces — from traditional Gau boxes to sacred Vajra talismans. Each amulet is created by artisans who uphold centuries-old traditions, ensuring spiritual authenticity and lasting beauty.

Embrace your spiritual journey with a piece that protects, empowers, and inspires.
Explore the ZenHima Tibetan Amulet Collection