Crystal Visions Tarot — Таро Кристального Видения

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About the Artist and the Crystal Visions Tarot

Ever since receiving her first Tarot deck at the age of 15, Jennifer wanted to create a Tarot deck. Over the years, she has read and collected many different decks but until a few years ago, it never felt like the right time to begin a deck of her own. It was a daunting task—78 cards—and part of her feared she wouldn’t be happy with what she created. When she finally decided to begin the deck, she wasn’t happy with the first few paintings. Originally, she thought she would try and let the ideas flow, painting each image as they came to her. It was a nice thought, but not very practical for such a big project. She decided to change her course of action, and tackle the project from a decisive point of view. She researched and planned out the majority of the deck, much like she would with any other illustration project, all before touching a paintbrush. It was hard at times, especially as many of the sketches called out to her to be painted, but in the end, there was peace of mind in knowing that she would be happy once the painting began. Through her process, Jennifer concentrated on painting each suit one at a time, for the most part, while working on some Majors in between. She found that concentrating on one suit at a time built a sort of momentum and helped her break through on a few of the card images that she had trouble visualizing. At present, the deck is complete and is published by U.S. Game Systems, Inc.

Deck Symbolism

The Crystal Visions Tarot is a traditional Tarot with much traditional symbolism, four suits in the Minor Arcana, Swords, Cups, Pentacles and Wands, and 22 Major Arcana. Jennifer plans on including a 79th card (blank card) for those situations not meant to be revealed. 

The Suit of Swords represents the intellect, communication, conflict and resolution, action, change, force, power, oppression and ambition. The Suit of Swords represents the element of air and therefore corresponds to the astrological signs of Aquarius, Gemini and Libra. The symbols used in this suit are birds, in particular, ravens, butterflies, and winged and armored characters. The scene is stark and gray, with cloudy skies and snow-covered, rocky terrain. Through this, roses, both dangerous and beautiful, continue to grow, and daylight continues to break through, signifying a promise of hope to end conflict and strife. Most of the characters found in the suit are dark haired, dark eyed and winged. The Suit of Swords in this deck corresponds with the season of winter. 

The Suit of Cups represents emotions, love, connections, the subconscious and relationships. The Suit of Cups represents the element of water and therefore corresponds to the astrological signs ofPisces, Cancer and Scorpio. The symbols used in the cards of this suit are different phases of the moon, enchanted coves, water lilies, dragonflies, and water nymphs. The scene is dusk, with the sunset colored skies and Spanish moss turning an inlet into a romantic hideaway or a place to reveal your emotions and find spiritual growth. Most of the characters portrayed in this suit are water deities and nymphs, and are light haired and light eyed. The Suit of Cups in this deck corresponds with the season of spring. 

The Suit of Pentacles represents money and material things, work, business, trade and prosperity. The Suit of Pentacles represents the element of earth and therefore corresponds to the astrological signs of Capricorn, Taurus and Virgo. The symbols used in the cards of this suit are earth spirits, dryads, lush and fruitful trees and plants, wildlife, crystals and gems. The scene is wooded and shady, where much of the greenery has set its roots deep into the earth, while other life has just begun to sprout. Many of the characters portrayed in this suit are earth spirits and are darker haired with light or dark eyes. The Suit of Pentacles in this deck corresponds with the season of autumn. 

The Suit of Wands represents creativity, inspiration, artistic endeavors, primal energy, spirituality, determination, strength, intuition, ambition and courage. The Suit of Wands represents the element of fire and therefore corresponds to the astrological signs of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. The symbols used in the cards of this suit are candles, sprites, dragons, lions, unicorns, horses, crystal balls and snapdragons. The scene is stark and mountainous, with blazing skies burning with the power of inspiration and creativity. Many of the characters portrayed in this suit are auburn haired with light or dark eyes. The Suit of Wands in this deck corresponds with the season of summer or summer. 

Jennifer Galasso is a fantasy artist and illustrator whose work is published as prints, greeting cards, collectible figurines, and many other gifts items, and sold in retail shops in the United States and throughout the world. Please visit Jennifer’s Main website, www.magickal-art.com, for more of her artwork and gifts. 

You can also read her interview with the Tarot Gals here or on the U.S. Games Fool Stop Tarot Blog.

Jennifer also has a Facebook page that she updates often. If you’re on Facebook, please stop by her page.

Jennifer was interviewed on Tarot Talk Radio about the deck. You can listen to the archived interviewhere.

Jennifer also had a blog talk radio with a couple close friends about the deck, her artwork and spirituality. If it interests you, it can be found here.

The Fool

The Fool represents taking a chance, unlimited potential, enthusiasm, naivete, blind faith, spontaneity and a zest for life. The Fool is at the beginning of the journey, facing many adventures and choices. It is through these choices that the Fool will learn important lessons and move forward to the next adventure. 

The character portrayed in this card looks around, marveling at the beauty of her surroundings, She watches the flight of the butterflies, delighting in their freedom. She is completely unaware of the danger that faces her as she nears stepping off a cliff into the unknown. 

This card symbolizes taking a leap of faith and cautions to be more aware of everpresent dangers.

The Magician

The Magician represents creative power and determination. The Magician, strong-willed and ambitious, reminds us of our ability to harness the power of the Universe in order to manifest our dreams and desires. The Magician represents all of the elements of the Universe; fire, water, air, earth and spirit, as represented by his tools; cup, wand, pentacle and sword. The Magician hovers over a crescent moon with a dove at his feet as ravens fly above, a symbol of duality and balance. This is a card of potential and impact and reminds us to grasp opportunities and take action consciously and deliberately.

High Priestess

The High Priestess represents, mystery, the unconscious, intuition, and divine realms. She represents a sense of calm that is needed in our lives, in order to find a deeper meaning and greater truth through wisdom, knowledge and understanding. The High Priestess is the keeper of intuitiveness and all things magick. She, along with the Empress, is the feminine archetype of the Tarot, balancing the male energy of the Magician and Hierophant. The High Priestess stands upon a crescent moon, symbolizing intuition, psychic force and unseen energy. She holds a pomegranate in one hand, and a ankh staff in the other, and is surrounded by butterflies, all symbols of rebirth and eternal life.

The Empress

The Empress represents femininity, abundance, nurturing, harmony, luxury, beauty and grace. She is the Goddess of fertility. She is an Earth Mother, representing this world and that of the senses. The Empress in this card is portrayed with child, surrounded by greenery and ripe wheat. She holds a heart-shaped charm and a triskele scepter, symbolizing both life and rebirth and the power of the Triple Goddess. The Empress wears a necklace adorned with the symbol of Venus, as well as a crown of stars. She stands beneath a pomegranate tree, a symbol of fertility, while one foot stands firmly on land and the other dips into the river, the symbol of life.

The Emperor

The Emperor is the male counterpart of the Empress. Structured, protective and authoritative, he is the ultimate guardian and patriarch. The Emperor balances the abundance and sensitive nature of the Empress. Holding an ankh staff in his right hand, the symbol of life everlasting, the Emperor balances an orb with his left, representing the world of which he rules and protects. His totem, the eagle, flies toward him carrying another orb, representing the power, dominance and vision of the Emperor. A crown bearing the horns of a ram, a symbol of assuredness and intelligence, adorns the Emperor’s head. He stands sure-footed upon a barren mountain range overlooking and protecting his domain in the canyon below.

Hierophant

The Hierophant represents religious tradition, order, rules and orthodox dogma. The Hierophant is a representative of God on earth, and therefore must follow certain rules and standards that people have come to expect. He is a conformist and a traditionalist, upholding religious standards, ritual and ceremony. He is wise and learned and it is his duty to uphold and pass on ancient beliefs. 
The Hierophant is depicted as a religious leader, much like the Pope of the Catholic church, however, the medallion behind him contains symbols from many different organized religions throughout the world. The Hierophant holds up the first two fingers of his right hand in a blessing as a candle burns to his right with the symbol of Universal beliefs. A triple cross staff, traditionally used by the Pope, sits to his left, symbolizing the trinity used in so many religions. Crossed keys on the Hierophant’s mitre symbolize the unlocking of wisdom and higher truths.

Lovers

The Lovers card represents a strong connection to another person, whether it be through a physical or sexual attraction, deep love or kinship, an empathic connection, or a strong friendship. Most people, however, associate the Lovers card with a strong physical desire and deep love. It is the card of soul mates and seeing yourself in another person. The two people depicted in the card are literally bound by the ties the two doves above them are holding, much like the ties one would use in a handfasting, or marriage ceremony. These ties are symbolic of the two being better, stronger and more complete as one.

Chariot

The Chariot is a card of victory, self-confidence, success, focus, control and authority. This card represents the achievement of one’s goals through self-discipline, assertiveness, and perseverance. 

The character portrayed in this card is feminine, yet she is a warrior. She holds herself with an air of self-assuredness, as her chariot seems to fly through the clouds. The Chariot card is a card of dichotomies, especially conflicting emotions, represented by the black and white horses veering off into different directions. The charioteer does not seem concerned as she holds the reins with only one hand. She has all the control and willpower she needs to keep her emotions in check, in order to attain victory.

Strength

The card of Strength refers to inner strength and courage. Patience, kindness, confidence and willpower all represent the strength of the mind, as opposed to that of the physical. The card of Strength depicts a woman kneeling beside a lion atop a cliff. She rests her left hand on the lion’s face, cupping his chin, unafraid that he will do her harm. In her right hand she holds a staff with an orb and a lemniscate, both symbols of infinity. Eagles soar in the sky above them, birds of power, vision and determination.

The Hermit

The Hermit represents the need to escape from the world into solitude, in order to search within oneself for deeper meaning. It is a time to put projects on hold, get rid of distractions and concentrate on introspection and meditation in order to re-evaluate one’s goals and current path. The Hermit seeks the truth and the greater knowledge of the universe.

The Hermit in this card is portrayed sitting alone on a mountaintop, looking down at the world below, in order to gain a greater perspective and deeper understanding. All is quiet and still as the Hermit listens closely to the hum of the universe, which brings with it a greater sense of balance and peace.

The Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune represents fate, destiny, opportunities, a change in luck, spiritual growth, vision and enlightenment. The wheel represents cycles, karma, as well as changes in direction and movement. 

The card shows the wheel with twelve sections, one with each symbol of the zodiac. The sun and moon make up the center of the wheel, and the outer edge are the four elemental symbols, representing water, air, fire and earth. Around the center are the letters TARO, meaning several things. Rota is the wheel, or cycle; Orat means to speak or teach; Tora is the Torah, or Law; Ator means Hathor, the goddess of love; and together they spell Taro or Tarot. When hard work and perseverance meet the good timing of the Wheel of Fortune, life-changing opportunities can arise. All of these forces in the universe spin the wheel of fortune and help make up our destiny.

Justice

The card of Justice represents fairness, honesty, and acting in an ethical manner. Justice means weighing all sides before making important decisions in order to make impartial judgments. It also means being accountable, and taking responsibility for actions and decisions. The character portraying Justice in this card is shown with a sword and scales, traditional symbols of the card of Justice. The sword represents the decision she needs to make, and the scales represent weighing all the evidence before making that decision. She stands balancing on loose rock as a river of truth flows through them, representing the fine balance it takes to find the truth. With the mountains behind her, all is quiet except the flowing river. Here she can find the peace and serenity to find the truth. She reminds us that even though many day to day events in our life may seem unjust, there is a divine order to the universe, and ultimately, through karma, justice will reign.

The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man represents a period of suspension, indecision, sacrifice and surrender. It is a time to let go and find acceptance in situations in which one no longer has control. It is a time to change perspective or old ways of thinking, in order to find freedom and continued growth. Sometimes this is necessary only through sacrifice, and putting one’s own self interests aside for the greater good. 

The figure in this card hangs alone in the woods. The figure could struggle to free himself, or yell out for someone to help, but instead he hangs, suspended, surrendering to his situation. He is not being held through the force of some malign force, but rather by his own accord. It is through this resignation that he will gain control through greater insight. It is through the sacrifice of being trapped and helpless that he will again empower himself with a new outlook on life, spiritual growth, and the new path he should continue upon.

Death

The Death card represents an end to something in order to give way to something new. This can mean ending a relationship, a chapter in your life, a habit or way of thinking, in order to transition into something new. The Death card is often viewed with fear and apprehension, but it is truly a card of evolution, metamorphosis and growth. The Death card indicates change, which is often frightening, but is necessary for progress. 

The card portrays a dark angel looking over a tombstone with the inscription, Vita Mutatur, Non Tollitur, Life is Changed, Not Taken Away. A light from above shines down on the tomb as butterflies fly toward the light, a symbol of life, renewal and change.

Temperance

The card of Temperance signifies maintaining balance, practicing moderation and combining forces. The figure portrayed in the card tempers a chalice of water and a chalice of fire. She combines the two in just the right balance that instead of the water putting out the fire, together they create a rainbow. She sits with one foot on dry land, the material world, and one foot in the water, the subconscious.

Devil

The card of the Devil represents an attachment to earthly desires, temptation, being bound in hopelessness or materialism, and ignorance. The Devil draws us to the pleasures of this world, many times at the expense of others and of our own spiritual growth. This card can often mean you are in an unhealthy or stifling situation or circumstance. Maybe you are refusing to see the truth about a negative situation, idea, or way of life. Regardless, the Devil represents a lack of growth and devolution of the spirit. 

The Devil card portrays Pan playing his flute, as a seductress tempts you to enter the Devil’s garden by offering the fruit of the pomegranate tree. As with Eve and Persephone, it is easy to be drawn in by the Devil’s song and the tempting fruit, but once you’ve chosen the Devil’s offering, many times you can never return.

The Tower

The Tower represents a swift change, upheaval, disaster, reversal in fortune, or a striking revelation. When the Tower appears in a spread, it means a monumental change or shift is on the way, whether it’s in one’s career, relationship, or belief system. Where many life changes happen gradually, the energy of the Tower is quick and powerful, leaving those resistant to change barely aware of what has happened. The Tower, like Death, many times ends or reverses the current false or shaky situation in order to pave the way for new opportunities and new truths to arise. One’s perception of this swift and drastic change will make all the difference in how they adapt to their new circumstances. 

The card shows a tower being struck by lightening at the top, and being ravaged by strong waves at the base. The tower should be able to withstand the elements, but because it was built on a weak foundation, it is crumbling down around itself. The gulls, who once made the tower their comfortable perch, suddenly have to fly off into the unknown, to look for another place to rest.

The Star

The Star represents hope, inspiration, generosity, serenity and faith. The Star helps you to reflect on your blessings, and fosters a positive outlook toward your future. Through this abundance comes generosity of heart, time, and self, which leads to an inner strength and sense of peace and harmony. Much like the card of Temperance, the Star represents mental and emotional stability, renewal, balance and fulfillment. 

The card depicts a woman surrounded by eight stars. Eight is the number of strength, which is needed to accept one’s imperfections, and build self esteem and love in spite of them. The woman pours a cup of water into a larger pool of water, representing our subconscious and emotional state. With the other cup, she pours water onto dry land, representing our presence here on earth. She balances as one of her feet dips into the pool of water, while the other remains firmly grounded on dry land.

The Moon

The Moon is the card of dreams, the subconscious, psychic abilities and intuition. The Moon beckons us to delve deeper into our subconscious in order to find our inner voice and reach higher levels of enlightenment. The Moon gives light, as does the sun, yet the Moon does not illuminate our path as brightly. Because of this, we must use instinct and our own energy in order to find our way. 

The Moon card portrays a Moon Goddess standing before the thinly veiled portal of our subconscious, beckoning us to search deeper in order to reach a higher consciousness. Two wolves represent our wild nature, yet our ability to be cautious and controlled by outside forces and by our own will. They stand in a field of moonflowers, baying at the waxing and waning phases of the moon above them. Much like the phases of the Moon, our emotions are changeable and dictated by our subconscious motivations. In order to move past injuries and pain from the past, we must no longer repress, but face our fears and anxieties head on in order to continue on our journey.

The Sun

The Sun card represents enlightenment, finding the truth and gaining a deeper insight. The Sun card represents all that is good and encourages one to shine brightly. Confidence, self-assuredness, personal glory, high energy, good health, vitality and bliss are all aspects of the Sun card. 

In this card, a woman stands holding her son in a field of sunflowers. A wild colt looks on as Monarch butterflies flutter around, heading toward the light. The woman watches as her son delights in the beautiful flowers, as the sun warms their backs. He fulfills and delights her, reminding her of the wonders and joys of her childhood and all that is most important in life.

Judgment

The card of Judgment represents absolution, atonement, and rebirth. With this card, the Fool has reached a significant stage in his journey. It is time now to leave the past behind, along with any guilt and grievances, make amends, and move forward. The card can mean the need to make a tough decision, or a judgment call, making a fresh start or opening up to new circumstances. 

The card depicts an angel with a trumpet of judgment standing in a field of lilies while spirits fly above. As always, through death comes new life, and a higher calling.

The World

The World symbolizes the culmination of the fool’s journey. It is the card of universal understanding and the balance of mind, body and spirit. It is the highest level of consciousness that can be achieved. The World represents fulfillment and the completion of a cycle. The World brings with it a sense of coming full circle and the promise of a new beginning. 

The character depicted in this card sits on top of the world in the lotus pose. She appears to be meditating, listening to the hum of the universe. She wears a necklace with the Hindu symbol «Om» symbolizing the most perfect integration of mind, body and spirit. She’s not only surrounded by the elements, she is one with them.

The Blank Card

The Blank Card is the cover card of the deck. When the blank card is included in a spread, wherever it falls represents an answer that’s not yet meant to be revealed. It can signify something from the past that one may not fully understand, or something that is happening or soon will happen that may not fully be clear. Wherever the Blank card falls within a spread will indicate what area still needs to unfold and that further steps need to be taken in order to clarify the bigger picture. The blank card can also signify the importance of one looking deeper into the issue at hand in order to find the answers they desire. It can also represent the importance of moving forward with a blank slate and without bias. 

The figure in the card beckons the querent to take a look into her crystal ball, however, the image in the ball is cloudy and unclear. With time, patience and introspection, the picture will soon be revealed.

The Ace of Cups

The Ace of Cups represents new love, reflection, an outpouring of emotions, or renewal. This card signifies acknowledging or expressing one’s feelings, empathizing with others, or fine tuning your intuition. This is a time for new spiritual and emotional growth, a new partnership, marriage, or a mending of a hurt relationship. The card portrays a full cup, overflowing onto the water lily upon which it sits. The phases of the moon adorn the cup, representing the different aspects of our emotions. 

The Suit of Cups represents water (Pisces, Cancer, Scorpio), emotions, love, connections, the subconscious and relationships. The symbolism used in the cards of this suit are different phases of the moon, enchanted coves, water lilies, dragonflies, and water nymphs.

The Two of Cups

The Two of Cups represents a connection, an attraction, or a common bond. It could be a marriage, a union, a deep friendship or partnership. The Two of Cups can also represent a truce or forgiving someone close to you.

This card portrays a man and a woman sharing their emotions, as represented by their cups. The feeling is one of a romantic or sexual attraction. This card is much like the Lovers card in the Major Arcana as it portrays the power and emotion of two people joining together.

The Three of Cups

The Three of Cups represents a celebration, friendship, social invitations, a birth or pregnancy. It represents an accomplishment, good fortune, or a connection with others. Happiness, sharing, reflection, love and abundance are the themes of this card. 

This card shows three maidens sitting by the water, each with a cup in hand. They are close, sharing a moment together, enjoying each other’s company. They trust one another and truly enjoy spending time with each other.

The Four of Cups

The Four of Cups is a card of apathy, boredom, or self-centeredness. It can also be a card of introspection and withdrawal during times of uncertainty.

The figure in the card is staring mindlessly at the water lily floating in the large cup in front of her, unaware of the three cups sitting precariously on the rock next to her. She is disengaged and self-involved, and uninterested in the surroundings that aren’t immediately in front of her.

The Five of Cups

The Five of Cups represents a feeling of loss, lack of fulfillment, or falling short of a goal. The card represents a feeling of emptiness, guilt and despair. 

The figure portrayed in the card focuses her attention on her loss—the three cups that have spilled into the water. In her grief she is blind to the two full cups being offered to her. This card depicts a pessimistic attitude and wasting energy on negative emotions. There is a focus on that which is not very important and an inability to let go of the past in order to move forward. It is important to forgive, especially yourself, pick up the remaining cups, and move ahead in your journey.

The Six of Cups

The Six of Cups is a card of nostalgia and pleasant childhood memories. This card can represent remembering something beautiful and happy from the past, reconnecting with old friends, or simply a desire to feel like a child again. 

The figure portrayed in the card is emerging from the water as she continues on her journey, however, she looks back, seeing herself as she once was. She has a moment of wistful nostalgia as she sees her past. She is tempted to go back to the safe environment of her youth, yet she knows she must continue forward, into the unknown. She reaches for the sixth cup, knowing the past is gone and her future awaits her.

The Seven of Cups

The Seven of Cups is a card of imagination, dreams, and flights of fancy. This card can indicate that the person in question is scattering their energies or is dealing with too many options. It represents living in a dream world, avoiding responsibilities, and creating illusions. 

The card portrays a woman hitching a ride on the back of a dragon. The dragon is taking cups from the water, seemingly without her knowledge. Perhaps he is guarding them for her, as cups represent her true emotions. As she flies, a sprite offers her a cup. She looks on, amused, however, she doesn’t reach for it. She refuses to touch ground and face her true emotions. She’s perfectly content where she remains, flying through the clouds.

The Eight of Cups

The Eight of Cups represents abandoning the old in search of a deeper meaning, solitude, sadness, and change. In this card, one is growing weary with the way things have been, and is urged to leave part of the past behind in search of that which will be more fulfilling and inspiring. It is a card of transition, but instead of charging forward with enthusiasm, the figure portrayed in the card emerges from the water slowly, cautiously, and with a bit of sadness and reluctance. She hangs on to a bit of moss, but at the same time, drops the last of her cups into the water, as she moves forward, alone, on her path.

The Nine of Cups

The Nine of Cups is traditionally the wish card in the Tarot. It represents achieving goals and having your dreams come true. The catch 22 of this card is that once a wish is granted, many times what you wished for is no longer what you need or desire. This card also indicates and cautions that what you put out into the universe, you get back, sometimes several times over. 

The figure portrayed in this card sits contentedly on a log in a cove making a wish upon a dandelion. As the dandelion’s fluff swirls around her and toward the full moon, she is confident that all of her wishes will soon be granted.

The Ten of Cups

The Ten of Cups is a card of joy, peace, fulfillment, happiness, and family. It is a perfect blending of love and friendship. It is the culmination of the relationship that began with the Two of Cups. It is truly the card of «happily ever after.» 

In this card, the mother cuddles her baby close by her cheek as the father holds them both, looking at them adoringly. They are in a serene setting surrounded by cups, pure abundance and unlimited blessings.

The Page of Cups

The Page of Cups signifies the beginning of a relationship, usually romantic or spiritual. It can also indicate a possible new birth. The Page is a messenger, a sensitive soul, open to honest and heartfelt communication. It’s important to be open-minded and receptive to new opportunity. 

The figure portrayed in the card stands in a pool of water, concentrating, possibly meditating, into a cup glowing brightly with the message that she needs to receive or convey to another. She reminds us to be loving, intimate, gentle and emotional.

The Knight of Cups

The Knight of Cups is gallant, chivalrous, sensitive and strong. He is a true knight in shining armor—Prince Charming. The Knight brings with him a romantic invitation or request. He is capable of sweeping women off their feet, however, he is ruled by his heart, rather than his head, and can be fickle with his emotions. While the Knight is a passionate, poetic and romantic dreamer, he can also be temperamental, overly sensitive and prone to living in the fantasy world that he has created. 

The Knight of Cups sits upon a white unicorn as he walks through an enchanted cove with the full moon lighting his way. He carries a cup in one hand and a bouquet of flowers in the other. He is on his way to meet his love and offer her his affections.

The Queen of Cups

The Queen of Cups is warm, sensitive, and highly emotional. She’s a gentle nurturer and an empathetic care-giver. The Queen of Cups is a loved by all, as she is always honest and fair. She is poetic dreamer, a warm and loving spouse, and a compassionate mother to all. She is patient, highly intuitive and spiritual.

The Queen of Cups sits upon a rock in an inlet under the light of the full moon, surrounded by water lilies and dragonflies. In her left hand she holds a cup, in her right, a trident staff. Her head is adorned with a trident crown surrounded by a halo of seashells.

The King of Cups

The King of Cups is strong, wise, patient, honorable, and kind. The King is highly intuitive and compassionate, but is calm and in control of his emotions. He is an intelligent and diplomatic leader, able to diffuse tensions, and keep the peace through his tolerance and open-mindedness. He acknowledges his emotions, however, keeps them balanced in order to rule in the fair and just manner of a King. He sits with one leg in the water, while the other sits firmly on a rock. He holds a trident in his left hand, a symbol of water gods Neptune and Poseidon, and a cup in his right, surrounded by a throne of reeds.

The Ace of Wands

The Ace of Wands represents a new creative venture or opportunity, inspiration, ambition and potential. The Ace of Wands encourages us to move forward toward a goal with enthusiasm and confidence. Creative energy abounds, and it is time to harness that energy and move forward, putting fears aside in order to cultivate a dream. 

The Suit of Wands represents creativity, inspiration, artistic endeavors, primal energy, spirituality, determination, strength, intuition, ambition and courage. The symbolism used in the cards of this suit are candles, sprites, dragons, lions, unicorns, horses, crystal balls and snapdragons.

The Two of Wands

The Two of Wands represents authority, power, persuasiveness and risk-taking. It’s a card of personal power and taking matters into your own hands.

The person represented in this card is a trailblazer, confident, courageous and bold. The Two of Wands harnesses the energy found in the Ace in order to focus it on a project, vision, or goal. The Two of Wands can also represent partnering, combining forces or collaborating with another. It can also indicate having to make a choice about where you invest your time, energy, and enthusiasm and with the right instincts, the correct choice will be made.

The Three of Wands

The Three of Wands is the card of exploration, new adventure, visionaries, endless possibilities and foresight. This card can indicate strength of business and enterprise through a partnership, and also indicates taking a leading role in the relationship. Courage and initiative are indicated with the Three of Wands, as well as reflective, controlled power.

The person portrayed in this card looks out at the horizon, as her crystal catches the light of the sun. She waits to see what rewards will come after investing her time, diligence, and passion.

The Four of Wands

The Four of Wands is a card of rejoicing and celebration, reflecting on achievements and enjoying deserved rewards. It traditionally signifies a marriage, or reaching a milestone in a relationship or partnership. It is also a card of freedom, and breaking free of an oppressive situation, fulfillment and prosperity. With this comes a feeling of peace, balance, harmony, and a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. 

The characters depicted in this card stand together in the woods surrounded by four fire-lit wands. It is a romantic setting, where it is possible that each is professing their love, or possibly he is proposing marriage. The white horse upon which she sits represents romance and chivalry. He is her «Knight in Shining Armor» and she is the one to whom his heart belongs.

The Five of Wands

The Five of Wands is a card of competition, conflict and power struggles. It represents delays, annoyances and arguments. It is important, at this time, to stay calm, as most of the setbacks are irritating, but minor. It is also important to size up the competition, as some rivalry is healthy and motivates one to strive further and work harder. No one involved is out to hurt the other out of malice. All parties involved long for the same outcome, however, they disagree on how to reach the goal. Creative differences are the biggest factor with the Five of Wands. 

This card depicts three men and two lions fighting in the brush of a field, yet none of them is out to fatally harm the other. The men carry wands in order to intimidate, and the lions show their teeth, but do not go in for the kill. Each one is simply fighting to gain an alpha position.

The Six of Wands

The Six of Wands is the card of the hero and victor. This is the card of vindication, acknowledgment, recognition, and pride bordering on arrogance. The champion emerges from the struggle in the Five of Wands, and those around him consider him a hero. Everyone is pleased with his success. 

The character in this card is portrayed on a mountaintop, head high as he stands holding a torch of victory in one hand, and a crystal ball in the other, a symbol of vision and enlightenment. The triumphant lion stands beside him, a symbol of strength and power. A laurel wreath symbolizes their victory.

The Seven of Wands

The Seven of Wands deals with conflict and struggle, much like the Five of Wands. In this card, however, the champion seems overpowered, when in fact, he is in a position of advantage as long as he has the courage of his convictions and the integrity and strength to stand up for himself. The attack is most likely spurred out of jealousy over his success, and comes at a time when he is off his guard, tired and most vulnerable. It is important to maintain courage and determination at this time. 

The character in this card is facing six blazing wands heading straight toward him as he’s perched precariously on a mountaintop. He turns to face his attackers with only one blazing spear in hand and a shield to protect him, however, he sits upon a winged dragon. Even though he is outnumbered and has been caught off guard, he has the upper hand.

The Eight of Wands

The Eight of Wands involves quick, decisive action, receiving a message, finishing a project or reaching a goal. It can also mean travel by air or a quick resolution to a problem. Nothing stands in your way, now, and movement toward the end result is quick, and sometimes jarring. Don’t let this energy take you off guard, as wrong choices can be made when you’re not prepared. 

This card portrays eight unicorns stampeding down a mountainside. They are swift and powerful as they head toward the valley below, allowing nothing to get in their way or break their stride.

The Nine of Wands

The Nine of Wands is a card of defensiveness, patience and perseverance. It warns us to watch and wait and expect the worst from a situation. It’s important to proceed carefully, keep a keen eye out for trouble, and maintain your stamina as best you can. Although this may sound pessimistic, this card assumes it’s better to be cautious than to be caught off guard. The Nine of Wands is hopeful and encourages us to dig deep inside and keep going to the end, especially when we are so close to our goal. 

The Nine of Wands shows a warrior sitting with her lion companion on a rock surrounded by nine torches. Although she looks to be resting, she is actually planning her next course of action, all the while aware of what is happening around her. She keeps a cautious eye in one direction, while the lion takes care to watch her back.

The Ten of Wands

The Ten of Wands is a card of feeling burdened, being overloaded and struggling to make it. This card often indicates that one person has taken on more than their share of work. It can mean an inability to say no to other or delegate tasks. The Ten of Wands deals with a workaholic mentality, or someone who feels as though nothing is ever easy and they are constantly forced to do things the hard way. It’s a card of resistance and fighting an uphill battle. This card can also indicate that the person has been so successful in their creative endeavors and the fruits of their labor are so bountiful that it’s almost overwhelming. With great success comes great responsibility, and at times can be too much to bear. 

The character portrayed in this card sits upon a horse that is strong, yet carries a huge load. The hunter and all of his belongings are too much for the horse to bear as they head uphill and the hot sun beats down upon them. The horse is desperate to reach their destination and find food, water and rest.

The Page of Wands

The Page of Wands represents a creative soul, one who thinks outside of the box, and looks upon new ventures and ideas with enthusiasm. The Page of Wands is young, yet confident and ambitious, and courageous enough to move forward into the unknown. Leadership and assertiveness are common traits of the Page of Wands. 

The Page in this card sits alone with her dragon companion as she plays a tune on her flute. The energy and creativity in the Page is still young and unharnessed. It is powerful and wild, yet sitting alone with her song allows the Page to find inspiration in her creativity. With focus and perspective, the exuberant energies of the Page of Wands can develop into a truly awesome and creative vision.

The Knight of Wands

The Knight of Wands is passionate, charming and full of life. He loves to sweep women off their feet and his self-confidence and adventurous spirit works most every time. On the negative side, the Knight can be daring to the point of foolishness and confident bordering on cocky and arrogant. His temper flairs easily and his charm can quickly turn to insensitivity. 

The Knight in this picture sits atop a rearing horse. There is an air of danger and confidence to him, while at the same time he appears to be a bit of a show off. Sometimes the exuberant energy of the Knight is the dash of spice needed in one’s life. Sometimes the Knight, however, reminds one who tends to be too rash and quick to action to wait and think out their next step more carefully.

The Queen of Wands

The Queen of Wands is attractive, magnetic, energetic, confident and warm. Although not unnecessarily emotional, she is caring and sincere and draws people, including strangers, to her intoxicating cheerfulness and optimism. The Queen is extremely self-assured, yet not arrogant. Much like her lion familiar, she is strong and capable. She is a creative visionary, and knows she is capable of accomplishing anything she sets her mind to. Her ability to soar like an eagle makes her very inspiring to others, and is very much a part of her allure.

The King of Wands

The King of Wands is highly creative, ambitious, inspiring, bold and charismatic. The King is strong, assertive, and a force to be reckoned with. Courageous and unafraid to take risks, the King sets forth down any path that piques his interest. A true leader, much of the King’s power comes from his energy, enthusiasm and vision. The King’s companions are a dragon and a lion, symbols of fire and strength. He possesses a crystal ball, a symbol of inspiration and vision. The King is so charming and magnetic, that he often sweeps women off their feet. Unfortunately, as with his interests, he is fickle in love, and as soon as the fires of his passion die down, he is onto the next great thing.

The Ace of Swords

The Ace of Swords represents using the power of the intellect in a just and righteous manner. It indicates resolving a situation, being steadfast, and ultimately, victory. The Ace represents new beginnings, a new point of view or inspiration. 

The Suit of Swords represents the element of air (Aquarius, Gemini, Libra), the intellect, communication, conflict and resolution, action, change, force, power, oppression and ambition. The symbolism used in the cards of this suit are birds, in particular, ravens, butterflies, and winged characters.

The Two of Swords

The Two of Swords represents reaching an impasse or stalemate. It signifies refusing or avoiding making a choice, a denial of feelings, or being blinded to a possible solution. 

The woman pictured in the card is calm and stable minded, as portrayed by the balanced swords. She is refusing to see the problem at hand, therefore avoiding making a decision, and remains guarded by the crossed swords. The two ravens fly in opposing directions, signifying the two different paths she is facing.

The Three of Swords

The Three of Swords represents heartbreak, a painful separation, disappointment, betrayal or abandonment. The figure portrayed in the card is experiencing extreme sorrow and grief over a loss. The ravens fly away, leaving her alone, out in the cold, to suffer alone. The Three of Swords deals with the consequences of the difficult choice represented in the Two of Swords. It is necessary to mourn the loss so that you can release the pain and move forward.

The Four of Swords

The Four of Swords is one of recuperation, reflection and withdrawal. The woman depicted in the card is resting and recharging both her body and mind so that she can move ahead further in her journey. She has battled, either mentally or physically, and needs time to meditate in order to heal her body and soul. Taking a step back from the situation at hand is necessary in order to review the next course of action.

The Five of Swords

The Five of Swords represents betrayal, subterfuge, or someone who cheats or uses an unfair advantage to win. The card warns that we must look out for ourselves and try to claim what is rightfully ours, yet hurting others in our own self-interest will lead to a shallow victory. 

The card depicts a woman who is literally stabbed in the back as her assailant takes off with three swords. He seems pleased with his victory, yet looks back at what he’s left behind for his own personal gain.

The Six of Swords

The Six of Swords represents moving away from something in your past. It represents a period of transition. There is a sense of sadness from leaving something behind, but a sense of joy and excitement in the thrill of the journey forward. The figure portrayed in the card, alone in the vast nothingness, looks to the sky to see six birds flying toward her. As the clouds in the sky part to give way to light, she leaves her swords behind as she moves forward toward the horizon.

The Seven of Swords

The Seven of Swords is a card of deception, opposition and treachery. It is often the result of overconfidence, hasty actions and careless planning. Caution is needed.

The man portrayed in the card hangs tightly to one sword as he stoops to grab another while five ravens fly around him, almost taunting him, with the other swords they have stolen. Although you may feel defeated or betrayed, you must cut your losses and move on.

The Eight of Swords

The Eight of Swords is a card of restriction, feeling bound, helpless and vulnerable. The woman portrayed in this card is being held captive. The ravens seem to be her captor, but in actuality, she is the one imprisoning herself. Her legs are bound loosely enough so that she is still free to move and amid the eight swords that seemingly trap her, there is a break large enough for her to pass. Her blindfold prevents her from seeing a way out of her situation.

The Nine of Swords

The Nine of Swords is a card of guilt, anguish and regret. The figure portrayed in the card has taken to the ground in despair. She is paralyzed by fear and doubt, unable to move forward, and therefore resigns herself to the cold ground and the comfort of a stone. The raven’s flight is halted as they perch on the swords that surround her, looking on, assessing her pain. They wait for her to pick up the ninth sword that rests by her side and move on.

The Ten of Swords

The Ten of Swords depicts a person’s or a situation’s lowest point, or rock bottom. It can also mean that a person is feeling like a victim or a martyr, and may need to take control over their situation. Much like the Death card in the Major Arcana, there is a necessity for something to end, in order to give way to change and new beginnings. 

The card portrays a woman, stricken by ten swords, face down and bloody in the snow. Although this card may seem bleak, it is actually a ray of hope that the situation cannot get any worse than it currently is. It can only improve. The clouds in the dark sky are parting to give way to the sunlight once again.

The Page of Swords

This Page of Swords is a forceful communicator, assertive, and represents a test of wills. The Page, although young, has learned to be just and forthright. She uses her sharp wit and intellect to solve problems and diffuse conflict. Although her surroundings seem turbulent as the ravens fly in a disturbed pattern, she remains calm and ready for action.

The Knight of Swords

The Knight of Swords represents forceful action and unyielding energy. The Knight is often honest to the point of being blunt and cutting with his words. He is aggressive in his opinions and often times overbearing, yet he is charismatic, truthful and intelligent. The Knight rides a winged horse swiftly, through the clouds, followed by an army of ravens. His sword is drawn, and he’s ready for action, although no opposition is in sight.

Queen of Swords

The Queen of Swords is stern but feminine. She rules with her head, not her heart, yet she is not without compassion. She is wise and fair, honest and forthright. Though she appears soft and kind, she is not easily fooled. The Queen prefers to get to the heart of the matter, bypassing all of the pomp and circumstance. In one hand she holds a drawn sword, in the other a butterfly lights gently on her finger. She’s ready for battle when necessary, though she prefers to keep matters civilized. The clouds of conflict part, illuminating the Queen of Swords with the light of hope which rests on the horizon.

The King of Swords

The King of Swords is a calm and powerful ruler, who dislikes flamboyant displays of emotions in favor of a tactical use of intellectual power. The King is stern but just, truthful and decisive. In his right hand the King holds a double edge sword. His left hand rests calmly upon his knee, donning a ring of power and royalty.

The Ace of Pentacles

The Ace of Pentacles signifies having the means to reach a goal or to manifest your dreams. It represents the ability to draw to you what you need in order to prosper while remaining grounded and down to earth. It is important to be realistic and to trust in the help of reliable persons around you. Risk taking and outlandish expectations are not recommended at this time. 

The Suit of Pentacles represents earth (Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo), money and material things, work, business, trade and prosperity. The symbolism used in the cards of this suit are earth spirits, dryads, lush and fruitful trees and plants, wildlife, crystals and gems.

The Two of Pentacles

The Two of Pentacles represents keeping things in balance, juggling several things at once, adaptability and the ability to go with the flow. The Two of Pentacles depicts having fun, high spirits, and enjoying life, while still keeping things in order and rising to meet life’s challenges. 

The card depicts a wood nymph dancing alone in the forest. She handles her two pentacles with agility and grace, without concern for tripping up or letting them fall to the ground. She knows she is capable and conscientious enough to juggle all the issues that life brings, all the while remaining well rounded and balanced.

The Three of Pentacles

The Three of Pentacles signifies completion of a short-term goal and is a reminder to keep an eye on the bigger picture. With careful planning, determination, persistence, and hard work, our dreams can be achieved. It is important to hone skills, stick to a plan, maintain motivation, and possibly team up with others in order to reach prosperity. The key is to balance any fears of failure with an enthusiasm, in order to succeed. 

The man and woman depicted in this card begin to build their garden. The woman tends to a young plant while the man hones his skills as he builds a fountain out of a slab of stone. A little bird flies toward them holding a seed in its beak, a symbol of the beginnings of great things to come.

The Four of Pentacles

The Four of Pentacles represents a desire to maintain control and hang on to one’s possessions. Careful planning, wise spending, and maintaining order are all virtues, however, with the Four of Pentacles, there is a danger of being too possessive, controlling, and unwilling to change. Greediness and miserliness are the extremes of this card.

The character portrayed in the Four of Pentacles is one who is tired from hard work, but is smug about the prosperity they’ve earned. Unwilling to share, she would rather be alone with her belongings than risk losing them. She’s self sufficient, financially stable, but quite possibly emotionally and spiritually poor. She has sold out for too safe of an approach to life, and is trapped by her own material possessions, as she places far too much value on them than their actual worth.

The Five of Pentacles

The Five of Pentacles represents a lack of material prosperity, failure and loss. It can indicate ill health, loss of a job, and financial insecurity, real or imagined. This card can also indicate feeling alone, abandoned, anxious, and unwanted. There’s a need for comfort and companionship and a feeling of being loved. 

The figures portrayed in this card are a mother and child huddling together under a bare tree in the snow. They are cold, tired, without food, and quite possibly without a warm home. Though their situation is bleak, they have the warmth, love and companionship of each other. They may be materially poor, but spiritually they prosper.

The Six of Pentacles

The Six of Pentacles is the card of giving and receiving. This can refer to receiving or giving assistance in the form of a loan, material possessions, or possibly knowledge, advice or emotional support. This is the card of the mentor and protege, or the benefactor and recipient. This card, without a balance of giving and receiving, can lead to a power struggle, dominance and submission if one only takes and one only receives. 

The woman portrayed in this card is harvesting the fruits of her labor as she strolls through her garden. As she gathers fruit, she shares this wealth with the hungry birds. She is receiving the bounty of the earth and nature, and therefore shares this by giving back to earth’s creatures.

The Seven of Pentacles

The Seven of Pentacles represents reaching a goal or milestone. It signifies pausing to reevaluate the next steps one will take, and the need to take rest after much thought, preparation and hard work. 

The woman depicted in the card rests under a tree after gathering the bounty from her garden. She is proud that her hard work and efforts have yielded a bumper crop, however, she knows that consistent work on her part is necessary to maintain the garden and reap more in the future.

The Eight of Pentacles

The Eight of Pentacles represents working hard to master a skill. Keen attention to detail, a willingness to learn and perseverance is key to becoming a expert in one’s field. It is the position of the apprentice working hard to become a master. 

The card depicts a woman sitting at a spinning wheel out in her garden. She careful spins the wool, paying special attention and taking care to do the job correctly. She is absorbed in her work to the point that it is almost meditative and spiritual. She works consistently toward developing greater expertise in her challenging craft. Her labors fulfill her, and with each effort she knows she is making great strides.

The Nine of Pentacles

The Nine of Pentacles represents one who is self sufficient, refined and comfortable in their surroundings. This card signifies a love for the finer things in life, leisure and graciousness. 

The woman depicted in this card has built the life that she visualized for herself, and therefore is fulfilled and content. She resides in the flourishing garden she has tended to over the years, surrounded by her bounty. The tiger by her side represents the wild and basic nature of humanity, yet the tiger is tamed and civilized, living in harmony amongst the wildlife around him. The peacock by her side represents grace, refinement and affluence.

The Ten of Pentacles

The Ten of Pentacles signifies security, affluence, comfort and permanence. With the Ten of Pentacles, a secure foundation has been laid, the groundwork has been set, and from hard work and careful attention, prosperity has flourished. 

The card depicts a woman sitting comfortably in a tree with her wolf companion by her side, surrounded by ten pentacles. Again, as in the Nine of Pentacles, the wild has been tamed, and is comforted and secure in its surroundings. There is comfort and peace in the garden surrounding a crystal castle off in the distance. A deer stands under the tree, in the midst of the wolf, without fear, knowing it is where it belongs, and that it is safe and secure. The affluence of this card is enough, not only for the woman in the card, but also for her to share with others and pass on for years to come.

The Page of Pentacles

The Page of Pentacles represents the beginning of the manifestation of dreams, reaching of goals, and obtaining a high level of comfort and success. The Page brings forth good news of finding the means to actualize success and obtain material, intellectual and spiritual prosperity. 

The Page in this card sits high in a lush tree, which holds the brilliantly jeweled pentacle of her potential. She plays her mandolin, and enjoys her surroundings, patient that her conscientiousness, enthusiasm, and zest for learning will bring prosperity and comfort throughout her life.

The Knight of Pentacles

The Knight of Pentacles is the most conservative of the Knights. He is a down to earth realist to the point he may be viewed as pessimistic. He is cautious and thorough, thoughtful and hardworking. The Knight can be stubborn, picky, with an «all work and no play» attitude. Although he can be seen as the least romantic of the Knights, his security and reliable personality makes him a loyal and trustworthy partner. 

In this card, the Knight walks through the woods on horseback carefully and mindfully, taking care to use his staff to balance himself along the way. He has no weapons for conflict, and he is keenly aware of his surroundings. The horse remains on the path, with the Knight’s guidance, without breaking stride.

The Queen of Pentacles

The Queen of Pentacles is practical, down-to-earth, business-minded, financially savvy, resourceful and generous. The Queen has a big heart and is nurturing and supportive of all, most especially children and animals. The Queen is prosperous and trustworthy, a true earth mother, cultivating the land and all that lives around her. She welcomes all she meets with an open heart and home, sharing her warmth and abundance upon all who cross her path. 

The Queen of Pentacles depicted in this card sits upon her tree throne, surrounded by her dryad ladies-in-waiting with crystal gems at her feet. She dons a mask and a cape of early autumn leaves as a pentacle scepter rests in her left hand.

The King of Pentacles

The King of Pentacles represents success, ambition, prosperity and security. The King is skillful, knowledgeable in practical matters, trustworthy, reliable, generous, steadfast and enterprising. Although the King of Pentacles is not overly sentimental and affectionate, he is loving and kind and a good family man. 

The King portrayed in this card is seated upon an ancient tree; his throne high upon a hill. In his right hand he holds a crystal scepter as his left rests firmly on the arm of his throne. He is capable, powerful and confident as he reigns over his kingdom in the forest below. 

 Crystal VisionsTarot