Charmstone

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This smooth, flat, oval pebble was put in the pot as a charm when brewing ale. The pebble is water-worn but otherwise indistinguishable. It was possibly used in the 19th century.

Charmstone put in the pot while making ale

Without more knowledge of the circumstances of its original use, it is difficult to interpret such an item as a countercharm against 'witchcraft' or as a specific 'remedy' to enhance the cooking process.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-002-736-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.NO 52
• Date: Possibly 19th century
  
• Material: Stone
  
• Dimensions: 85 mm L x 60 mm W x 22 mm D
  
• What:
• Subject: Jewellery: charms, amulets (NMAS Classification)
  
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