The Wonderful World of Good Luck Charms

Clovers are tiny green plants that grow in fields and on lawns. They usually have three leaves. Clovers with four leaves are very rare. That could be one reason why finding a four-leaf clover is thought to bring good luck in many countries. If you’re hoping to spot one, summer is the best time to search!

Horseshoes are pieces of metal. They’re attached to the bottom of a horse’s feet to protect them. In ancient times, horseshoes were made of iron, which was thought to keep away bad luck. Today some people hang a horseshoe above their door because they believe it will bring good luck into their life and keep bad luck out.

These tiny, three-legged pigs are made from clay. People in Chile sometimes give them to loved ones to wish them happiness and good luck. (Chanchitos means “little pigs” in Spanish!)

In many parts of the world, rainbows are considered a sign of hope for good things to come. That could be because they typically follow a storm and suggest that nicer weather is on the way. According to legends told in Ireland, a pot of gold can be found at the end of every rainbow. (Legends are stories from the past that are not proved to be true.)

These beetles have been considered a symbol of good luck for thousands of years. That’s likely because ladybugs have long helped farmers by killing bugs that hurt plants. For some people, the number of spots on a ladybug’s wings means the number of years of luck coming your way. Ladybugs can have anywhere from 0 to 24 spots!

Originally from Japan, this cat figurine is thought by some to bring wealth and success. Legends about the maneki-neko (mah-neh-kee-neh-koh) are said to be based on a real cat that saved the life of a warrior long ago. In the U.S., you can often find maneki-nekos welcoming you into Asian stores and restaurants.