An amulet, also known as a good luck charm or phylactery, is an object believed to confer protection upon its possessor. The word "amulet" comes from the Latin word amuletum, which Pliny's Natural History describes as "an object that protects a person from trouble". Anything can function as an amulet; items commonly so used include statues, coins, drawings, plant parts, animal parts, and written words.
A nazar, an amulet to ward off the evil eye
Djed, wadj, and figures of gods; amulets made of Egyptian faience.
Amulet, amber, with ear of wheat, Roman period (69-96 AD)
A selection of omamori, Japanese amulets
In religious studies and folkloristics, folk religion, popular religion, traditional religion, or vernacular religion comprises various forms and expressions of religion that are distinct from the official doctrines and practices of organized religion. The precise definition of folk religion varies among scholars. Sometimes also termed popular belief, it consists of ethnic or regional religious customs under the umbrella of a religion; but outside official doctrine and practices.
Botánicas such as this one in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, USA, sell religious goods, such as statues of saints and candles decorated with prayers, alongside folk medicine and amulets.