I follow a Pagan Path and am a huge lover of these ancient symbols and their meanings.
These are Elder Farthark Runes shown in the photo.
Rune stones are used as tools of divination and magick - a way to predict one's future. Rune Stones come in a set of 24 ancient alphabetic symbols. They can be made of different materials, these hold the extra energies of natural gemstone vibrations. They are always kept in a pouch, box or Offering Bowl.
Ideally ruins are cast on an East-West axis or facing the sun. A white cloth is laid down and used to determine the direction of the casting. I use a wooden Wicca board for mine, and you may also use the natural ground, grass or table if preferred. The same area should be used where possible as this builds the energy and gives you a sacred space to manifest and tune in your vibrations to that of the Runes.
From here the focus should lie with the pressing question. After casting the stones onto the cloth, board, ground or table the ones which have fallen the right side up are read and depending upon whether the rune is reversed or not will have a bearing upon its meaning and the reading as a whole. If they are facing down this indicates something you have that needs to be brought to the surface instead of being hidden within.
An alternative to casting the rune stones ...
Pick a rune stone randomly for a day reading, this sets your daily energy and mindset. Without looking reach into your pouch or bowl and choose the runes for your current vibration
You also do a 3 Rune Stone spread. Some feel that the day rune is a good way to get an answer to a single question. The 3 Rune Spread is used for asking future predictive questions.
We have books available with wonderful information, and they are invaluable to help your knowledge expand.
Please bless and protect yourself and your Stones before each ritual and casting.