Pirates believed that piercing the ears with such precious metals as silver and gold improved one's eyesight.
131
Amber beads, worn as a necklace, can protect against illness or cure colds.
89
Placing a hat on the bed is, apparently, bad luck. (South Carolina)
9
A single magpie is considered a sign of bad luck. A Guide to the Scientific Knowledge of Things Familiar recites an old proverb concerning the incidence of bad weather when magpies forage alone and a possible scientific explanation for this.
49
An acorn should be carried to bring luck and ensure a long life.
115
In some parts of England, rum is used to wash a baby's head for good luck.
71
Many believe that if all of the candles on a birthday cake are blown out with one breath, while making a silent wish, the wish will come true.
298
When you speak of bad luck, it is said that one should always knock on wood. Also knocking when speaking of good luck apparently helps with having good luck. This is an old Celtic tradition related to belief of wood spirits.
208