# Studio talisman system

Talismans are portable symbols of meaning. They may belong to a Realm, mark a ritual or value, accompany an invitation, or become a navigational landmark. They are not Realm types, not user identities, and not decorative badges.

## Canonical set

| Talisman | Meaning | Use when |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Compass | orientation | finding a way, choosing direction, returning to a bearing |
| Moon | reflection | holding possibility, rest, inward attention, the not-yet-known |
| Sprout | cultivation | learning, care, emergence, regenerative work |
| Tide | flow | rhythm, change, cycles, movement through time |
| Summit | purpose | a horizon, aspiration, shared outcome, difficult ascent |
| Vessel | stewardship | holding shared value, resources, continuity, responsibility |

## Shared chassis

- circular silhouette with a dark lacquer core
- double brushed warm-metal rim
- four cardinal studs
- one primary orbit track
- sparse constellation nodes
- tactile fired-enamel center symbol
- moon-cream highlight and localized reflected light

The supplied transparent PNGs are canonical masters. Preserve generous clear space around the rim.

## Composition rules

- A Talisman may be used alone at 32–256 px or as a landmark at larger Field scales.
- Use at most one dominant Talisman in a local composition; supporting Talismans should be smaller and quieter.
- A Talisman attaches to connectors at visible studs or orbit nodes, never through the central symbol.
- Do not recolor a Talisman to match a Realm. Its meaning and enamel identity persist across contexts.
- Do not use a Talisman as a substitute for a Realm crest, Ally face, Element function, or brand logo.
- Do not assign rarity, rank, prestige, ownership value, or collectible tiers.

## Scale behavior

- **16–24 px:** preserve circular family, main silhouette, and strongest enamel pair; remove star noise.
- **32–64 px:** preserve studs, primary orbit, and central symbol.
- **72–160 px:** reveal constellation nodes and enamel texture.
- **160 px and above:** full metal grain, lacquer texture, highlights, and secondary engraving.

## Accessibility

Always pair a meaningful Talisman with its accessible name and contextual meaning. Never rely on the symbol alone for an action, permission, warning, or state.

