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ᛏᚨᛏᛏᛟᛟ · Mjölnir

Mjölnir Tattoo (Thor's Hammer)

Mjölnir is the hammer of Thor, god of thunder and protector of gods and humans. It is one of the few Norse symbols people genuinely wore in the Viking Age: many small hammer pendants have been found across Scandinavia.

Where the Mjölnir comes from

In the myths, Mjölnir was forged by dwarves and always returned to Thor's hand after he threw it. Thor used it to defend Asgard and Midgard against the giants, and also to bless, hallowing weddings and other important moments.

Small hammer-shaped pendants were worn across the Viking world, many of them in the 10th century. Some historians think wearing them became more popular as Christianity spread and people wanted a clear sign of the old faith, much as Christians wore the cross.

What a Mjölnir tattoo means

Strength, protection and loyalty to the old gods, or simply to the people you stand up for.

Design ideas

  • A pendant-style hammer with knotwork or animal heads, inspired by real finds
  • Mjölnir with lightning, or crossed with a Vegvisir
  • A small, simple hammer outline on the wrist or behind the ear

Rune Library

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Get it as a tattoo design

Vegvisir and Yggdrasil tattoo stencils woven into Mjölnir, The Mjölnir Collection by Runestone Norway
Includes this symbol

Vegvisir & Yggdrasil Tattoo Stencils – The Mjölnir Collection

$9.00

The Mjölnir Collection: two original Runestone Norway tattoo designs, the Vegvisir and Yggdrasil woven into Thor's hammer. Vector stencils ready for your tattoo artist, with the real history of each symbol. Instant download.

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Custom bind rune personalized digital print design preview

Your own bind rune

$7.00

Want a design no one else has? We'll draw a bind rune from your initials or chosen words, ready to show your tattoo artist.

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Frequently asked questions

What does a Mjölnir tattoo mean?

Strength, protection and a connection to Thor and the Norse gods.

Did Vikings wear Thor's hammer?

Yes. Hammer pendants have been found across Scandinavia, many from the 10th century.