A form of divination: pendulums are a spiritual tool specialising in searching for guidance, providing insight into wanting to make a decision, or trying to strengthen your intuition. If the idea of using a pendulum is intriguing to you, investing in a pendulum board might be the answer to some of those unanswered questions.
What is a pendulum?
A pendulum is a weighted object attached to a chain that swings freely in the air as you hold it. The idea is that the pendulum uses your energy to move in different directions. For example, one direction would equate to 'yes', while the opposite would equate to 'no'. It is how people have come to use pendulums to seek guidance.
Pendulums commonly take the form of crystal necklaces, but can sometimes be made out of metal or wood as well. Crystal is a widely acknowledged material for a pendulum because crystals harness energy. However, crystal pendulums will need cleansing before use to rid them of any negative energy.
What is a pendulum board used for?
A pendulum board is a device used alongside a pendulum to make the swinging direction of the pendulum clearer. It is usually circular in form, with the words 'yes' and 'no' printed on the board in opposing directions. To use a pendulum board - hold the pendulum in the centre, ask a question and watch which way the pendulum sways.
In some instances these boards will also include the words 'maybe' or 'rephrase'. Additionally, they can include the letters of the alphabet, numbers or even zodiac signs. Although they may sound similar in format, it's definitely not to be confused with the ouija board.
What is dowsing?
Dowsing is a type of divination: it means searching for answers and being guided by a seemingly invisible force. Think of the dowsing rod, a device that's been used for centuries to search for water and minerals. The dowsing rod, much like the pendulum, moves of its own accord.
Whether or not the pendulum is guided by our subconscious, involuntary movements, our intuition, or spirit guides, it is a tool that can provide some insight for those seeking it.
10 best pendulum boards and pendulum dowsing boards
Here are our favourite pendulum boards and dowsing boards to help you strengthen your intuition.
Star Pendulum Board
Best beginner's pendulum board
View offer
A great beginner's board, this wooden pendulum board also comes with a pendulum necklace and velvet pouch. Featuring a beautiful carved design, this board is neat in size and affordable in price, making it ideal for those curious to get into pendulum dowsing.
Round Pendulum Board with Star Compass Design
Top Pick
View offer
We love this decorative pendulum board that looks expensive. Slightly Gothic in design, it feels as though it's an antique that's been discovered in the depths of a Victorian attic. You'll be pleased to know that this board is brand new and has been cleansed with Californian White Sage. No negative energy here.
Pendulum Board
Best mystical pendulum board
View offer
Featuring imagery of the stars, moon and planets, this pendulum board aims to answer the unanswered questions in the universe. We can see this mystical board suited to those wanting to find a connection to the world around them. This board comes with a pendulum necklace and velvet pouch, too.
Moon Phase Pendulum Board
Best lunar pendulum board
View offer
For those drawn to the moon - this pendulum board featuring the moon phases would be a fitting choice. In this set, you'll find a pendulum necklace along with a velvet pouch to store it in.
Wooden Pendulum Spiritual Numbered Divination Dowsing Board
Best detailed dowsing board
View offer
The most detailed dowsing board we could find: this one features the months of the year, days of the week, zodiac signs, alphabet, numbers and 'yes', 'no', 'possibly', and 'check again'. The board can be personalised to your liking, from a material of choice, and even a different central design.
Living Pentagram Pendulum Board
Best pendulum board featuring botanicals
View offer
A pretty pendulum board perfect for any hedge witch, this board could help when selecting herbs for spells or strengthening your connection to the natural world.
Round Ceramic Pendulum Board with All-Seeing Eye Design
Best pocket sized pendulum board
View offer
This handcrafted ceramic pendulum board in marble-effect finish includes the all-seeing eye to remind you to harness your powerful intuition. A simple, lightweight, and pocket-sized pendulum board that's a good starting point for your divination practises.
Slate Pendulum Dowsing Board
Best ancient dowsing board
View offer
Made from 500 million-year-old Welsh slate, these pendulum boards are pretty special. Carefully engraved and backed with felt to stop any scratches on surfaces, you can also decide whether you want to add a pendulum necklace to your order for an added cost.
Pendulum Dowsing Board with Free Pendulum
Best modern dowsing board
View offer
Fairly minimal and modern design, this aesthetically pleasing pendulum board comes with its dowsing crystal. Featuring wood engravings that encourage you to channel your spirit guides, this board is a labour of love.