author
Kate Pavitt
1868–1949
A largely forgotten figure in early twentieth-century occult publishing, Kate Pavitt explored the symbolism and supposed powers of gems, talismans, and zodiacal objects. She is best known for co-authoring a richly illustrated guide that connected ancient traditions with modern esoteric thought.
1 Audiobook
The book of talismans, amulets, and zodiacal gems
by William Thomas Pavitt, Kate Pavitt
About the author
Kate Pavitt (1868–1949) was an English writer associated with the Theosophical Society. Before her literary work, she was identified as a dressmaker and milliner; she later became involved in the study of occult symbolism and gemstone lore.
With William Thomas Pavitt, whom she married in 1906, she co-authored The Book of Talismans, Amulets and Zodiacal Gems. First published in 1914, the book surveyed the historical and symbolic meanings attached to gems, zodiac signs, and protective objects across traditions including Hinduism, Judaism, Egypt, Gnosticism, and Christianity.
The work was revised and reissued in 1922 and again in 1929, helping preserve Pavitt’s distinctive contribution to the popular literature of esotericism and gemstone symbolism. No reliable portrait of her was located.