The title probably says it all really. I've noticed that I can't see the amulet on my current companion, but I'm not sure if it's due to his armor he's wearing. Do followers actually equip trinkets such as amulets or rings that you give them?

yes, but it is rather difficult to get them to equip it :\

Oh? Any certain tricks to get them to do it? I'm having no problems with weapons or armor whatsoever.

Edit: Nevermind, now it says he's got it equipped, although I can't see it. Seems pretty...random I guess.

Edit 2: Hm, got me thinking. Do they use poisons, as in using poison bottles to poison their weapon? Or that's too much to process for their artificial brains?

yes if u give them potions they will take them

Potion, yes. But does that include poisons? As in applying them to weapons?

I saw Mjoll equip her jewelry once and only once, and I effed it up. I'm not sure why they're so reluctant to wear the trinkets you give them, but they eventually put them on.