Ian Parkin is the author of this post.

Cartomancy Divination Placing Fortune Telling In Your Own Hands

Cartomancy divination, quite simply, is the practice of divining or predicting future events or interpreting characters through the use of playing cards. This fascinating technique offers an alternative to tarot, using regular playing cards to reveal answers to your life's queries.

Cartomancy's origins are shrouded in mystery. Historically, the origins of cartomancy are often attributed to gypsies traveling across Europe. Others suggest that cartomancy originated from ancient Egypt or China. Regardless of where it started, it's apparent that humans across cultures have recognized the symbolic power of cards and have used them for divination.



Why use cards, you ask? Cartomancy, like any divination tool, takes something ordinary and uses it as a medium to contact the divine or access the subconscious. It's a concrete way of translating abstract concepts or feelings into something tangible and meaningful.

Cartomancy divination works through the use of symbols, colors, and numbers found on the cards. The arrangement and relationship between the cards drawn can represent various aspects of your life and provide insights into your future

Cartomancy is done with regular playing cards

There are many superstitions about the cards themselves that are used for cartomancy. One of the most widely held beliefs is that the deck, which is used for readings, should never be used for anything else. The act of playing with the cards can ruin the fine edge of their accuracy for predicting the future. Some purists even say that no one except the owner of the cards should ever lay a finger on them. They must protect from the aura of other people so that the connection between the cards and the medium is undisturbed and clear.

The argument over what is and is not cartomancy can become heated when discussed. Though they may agree that various methods are forms of divination, many from the older schools of thought refuse to bestow the title of cartomancy on any reading that does not involve a standard playing card deck. In other words, they believe that cartomancy does not include Tarot readings. There are other types of oracle fortune telling cards which they also feel do not meet the standards of true cartomancy.

How do you perform cartomancy divination?

The first step involves a clear mind, defined intent, and a chosen spread or layout of the cards.

Start by having a question or topic of investigation in mind. Your query can be as specific or as open-ended as you please - the cards will cater to your intent.

Next, shuffle the deck while keeping your query in mind. This isn't just a physical action; this is a way to imbue the cards with your energy and intention.

Start with a simple three-card spread, which represents past, present, and future. It offers a basic and straight-forward reading. However, there are numerous layouts to explore and experiment with once you gain confidence.

Then reveal your cards, taking note of their positioning (upright, reversed, in relation), their suit (hearts, diamonds, clubs, spades), and their number. These aspects all lend meaning to the card.

Take your time interpreting the cards. Be patient and trust your intuition. The beauty of cartomancy lies in its deeply personal interpretations, so allow your instincts to guide your reading.

Cartomancy with regular playing cards requires understanding the basic associations of each card. Hearts tend to signify emotions and relationships, while diamonds represent wealth and material matters. Clubs resonate with actions and ambitions, whereas spades indicate challenges and thought processes.

The numerical value of the cards also plays an integral part in cartomancy with regular playing cards. Typically, aces are seen as beginnings, eight's as progress, and ten's as endings. However, this is merely a guide - your intuition should always be your best guide.

Learning how to do cartomancy is a process that requires curiosity, patience, and practice. The more you engage with your deck, the more comfortable you'll feel interpreting its messages and understanding its language.

If this seems a daunting task, don't fret! I've included a list of cartomancy divination meanings for every card below so you can ask your questions, pick your own cards, and check their meanings here.

Complete List Of Cartomancy Divination Meanings

Complete List Of Cartomancy Divination Meanings

Ace of Hearts: New beginnings in love or deepening of emotions.

2 of Hearts: Mutual attraction and affection, and harmony in relationships.

3 of Hearts: A time for celebration, joy, and socializing with loved ones.

4 of Hearts: Stability and contentment in personal life.

5 of Hearts: Emotional stress or a conflict in your relationships.

6 of Hearts: Revisiting old places or reconnecting with old friends.

7 of Hearts: Torn between choices in love or at a crossroads.

8 of Hearts: Leaving something behind or moving away.

9 of Hearts: Wishes coming true.

10 of Hearts: Complete emotional happiness and success.

Jack of Hearts: A trustworthy friend or a young individual with good intentions.

Queen of Hearts: Warm, nurturing, and loving woman.

King of Hearts: Compassionate and affectionate man.


Ace of Spades: Transformation, change, and possible endings.

2 of Spades: Communication problems or separation.

3 of Spades: Heartbreak, disappointment, and loss.

4 of Spades: Time of stability, recuperation, and recovery.

5 of Spades: Conflict, disagreements, or struggle.

6 of Spades: Progress, moving away from challenges.

7 of Spades: Feeling of uncertainty and wisdom.

8 of Spades: Illness, stress, or emotional turmoil.

9 of Spades: Worry, grief, or hardship.

10 of Spades: Endings, loss, and periods of intense transformation.

Jack of Spades: A resourceful and capable person.

Queen of Spades: An intellectual, independent, no-nonsense woman.

King of Spades: An influential, powerfully-minded man.


Ace of Diamonds: New financial beginnings or opportunities.

2 of Diamonds: Balance in finances and material aspects.

3 of Diamonds: Teamwork or collaboration.

4 of Diamonds: Stability in finances.

5 of Diamonds: Changes in financial status.

6 of Diamonds: Giving or receiving.

7 of Diamonds: A challenge regarding material possessions.

8 of Diamonds: Skills being rewarded, hard work paying off.

9 of Diamonds: Luxury and financial security.

10 of Diamonds: Abundancy and wealth.

Jack of Diamonds: A young person who's driven and focused on career or education.

Queen of Diamonds: A wealthy, confident, and independent woman.

King of Diamonds: An influential and successful man in business.


Ace of Clubs: A new journey, new project, or birth of an idea.

2 of Clubs: Partnership, especially in business or career.

3 of Clubs: Collaborative efforts bringing progress.

4 of Clubs: Stability within work or a project.

5 of Clubs: Disagreements, competition, or conflicts.

6 of Clubs: Success and victory, especially in business or a project.

7 of Clubs: Diligence, persistence, and hard work.

8 of Clubs: Hard work ahead, need for determination.

9 of Clubs: Achievement and recognition.

10 of Clubs: Overwhelm with responsibilities but eventual success.

Jack of Clubs: An honest and reliable youth, but impulsive.

Queen of Clubs: An energetic, attractive, and sociable woman.

King of Clubs: A strong, confident, and inspiring man.


  • Jokers Wild! The Joker is an extra card that is not assigned a specific meaning in traditional cartomancy. However, I've included a cartomancy divination meaning for you should you choose to include them in your deck.

Joker: Embrace a unique, unconventional path, to find boundless joy in the adventure of life.

Cartomancy Divination FAQs

What Is cartomancy divination?

  • Cartomancy is one of the oldest known forms of fortune-telling, dating back to the 14th century. In this practice, the cartomancer or card reader, interprets the cards that are chosen by the person as it relates to their life and future.

What is the difference between tarot and cartomancy divination?

  • The Tarot is much different than the regular decks of cards that you and I may be familiar with. For starters, it has more cards. They are also divided up differently. The Tarot decks include 22 major arcana cards that do not have an equivalent in a standard deck. The remaining cards are somewhat similar to your standard poker cards in that each suit represents something significant. Clubs, diamonds, hearts, and spades each equate to one of the elements that make up the world. They are earth, air, fire and water.

What is the cartomancy meaning for the joker in the pack of playing cards?

  • Jokers are not typically included in a standard deck of playing cards for the purpose of cartomancy divination. The joker's role in a deck of playing cards is often as a wild card in various card games, and it doesn't have a fixed significance in fortune-telling practices like the fool in tarot cards. If the Joker did have meaning in cartomancy it would represent the wild, unpredictable, and limitless potential within us all.

My pick for Cartomancy products from Amazon, publishing affiliate may get a commission

Cartomancy - Speed Learning Fortune Telling With Playing Cards - by Julian Moore 

Playing Card Divination: Every Card Tells a Story - by Stephen Ball 

The Playing Card Oracles: A Source Book for Divination - by Ana Cortez 

The Cartomancy Workbook: How to Tell Fortunes with Playing Cards - by Emily Peach 

Navigating Life's Path with a Professional Cartomancer"

there's also great value in seeking guidance from a professional cartomancer. An experienced reader can offer in-depth interpretations, advice, and insights, especially when you're faced with complex problems or significant changes.

Getting a professional cartomancy reading is a unique experience. The reader combines their intuition, knowledge of card symbolism, and understanding of human psychology to provide a detailed and insightful reading.

Online platforms have made it easier than ever to find credible, experienced cartomancers. Look for reviews, testimonials, or credentials when choosing. Often, readers offer an introductory call or consultation to further ensure that you feel comfortable and connected.

In-person readings are also a wonderful option, particularly if you enjoy face-to-face interaction. Local metaphysical shops, spiritual temples, or organized events often host professional cartomancy readings.

Engage with your reader at your comfort level. Feel free to ask questions, clarify meanings, or express your thoughts and feelings about the cards. Your interaction can enhance the richness of the reading.

Remember, a cartomancy reading isn't meant to predict a fixed future. It's designed to provide insights, empower you with guidance, and stimulate your personal growth and self-awareness. You hold the ultimate decision making power over your life.

That's the beauty of cartomancy and divination as a whole. It isn't about relinquishing control over your destiny to fate or fortune. It’s about empowering yourself to make informed decisions and embrace the mystery and unpredictability of life.

Cartomancy is a tool for introspection, a powerful way to tap into unconscious thoughts or buried emotions and bring them to light. It can be a cathartic, healing, and transformative practice if approached with openness and humility.

More than divination, cartomancy is an invitation to wonder, explore, and deepen your understanding of yourself and the world around you. It encourages curiosity, stimulates reflection, and incites moments of realization and surprise.

In the end, cartomancy divination is a journey not just into the future but also into the self. Regardless of whether you're seeking practical advice or metaphysical insights, cartomancy offers a rich tapestry of imagery and symbolism to guide you.

Remember, no question is too big or small, too practical or metaphysical. Cartomancy divination has something to say about everything. It's both inclusive and universal, offering wisdom to all who seek it.

So, for those curious souls thirsty for guidance and self-exploration, begin your journey into cartomancy. Prepare to face the mirror it holds up to your life and the profound truths it may uncover. It could be filled with surprises, joy, and perhaps even a touch of magical fun!

Get a Live Cartomancy Reading Right Now

Cartomancy by a talented card reader can help guide you through tough decisions, help with love and relationship issues, and clarify matters of money, health, and the future. Get answers to your questions with an online card reading by the top-rated readers now!





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