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The Meaning of Evil Eye

The Meaning of Evil Eye

A symbol of protection, positivity, and timeless style, evil eye jewellery has captivated cultures for over 5,000 years. From its ancient Mesopotamian roots to its modern-day popularity in jewellery, this powerful talisman is believed to ward off negativity from the 'evil eye' and attract good fortune. Whether worn for spiritual significance or simply as a meaningful accessory, the evil eye continues to inspire and empower. In this blog, we explore the rich history behind the symbol, its cultural significance, and how it continues to shine in contemporary design.

Key Points:

  • Origins: Traces back to ancient Mesopotamia with early amulets found in modern-day Syria (c. 3300 BCE).
  • Symbolism: Represents protection against negativity and envy.
  • Modern Use: Popular in jewellery, especially the Turkish nazar boncuğu (blue glass bead), symbolising protection and good fortune.
  • Cultural Practices: Includes verbal charms like "Maşallah" and rituals such as tying red ribbons on children.
  • Jewellery Trends: Ethical craftsmanship using recycled metals and semi-precious stones blends tradition with modern aesthetics.

Whether for spiritual reasons or style, the evil eye continues to connect ancient traditions with contemporary life.

History and Background

Ancient Roots

The concept of the evil eye dates back to ancient Mesopotamia. Archaeologists uncovered the earliest eye amulets at Tell Brak, located in modern-day Syria. These artefacts, made from gypsum alabaster and featuring carved eyes, are believed to date back to 3,300 BCE [3]. By 1500 BCE, artisans around the Mediterranean began crafting blue glass versions of the amulet, showcasing a shift in both materials and craftsmanship [3].

Different civilisations incorporated the motif into their own traditions. In ancient Greece, it was known as baskania and appeared on household items, livestock tokens, and charms for children. The Romans later embraced the concept, incorporating the "oculus" design into jewellery and decorative arts. Over time, this motif evolved into the Turkish nazar boncuğu, a symbol widely recognised today.

The Turkish Nazar

The Turkish nazar boncuğu, or evil eye bead, remains one of the most enduring protective symbols. Its deep blue colour is tied to the sky deity Tengri, a connection made by Turkic tribes that helped establish its protective qualities [3]. These beads became popular across the Mediterranean and Levant, crafted by artisans from various cultures, including Phoenicians, Assyrians, Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans [3].

Dr Nese Yildiran, an art history professor at Istanbul's Bahçeşehir University, points out: "The glass beads of the Aegean islands and Asia Minor were directly dependent upon improvements in glass production." This highlights how advancements in glassmaking influenced both the appearance and symbolism of these beads [3].

Today, nazar boncuğu are commonly pinned to children's clothing or displayed in homes, vehicles, and businesses to protect against harmful gazes [4]. Beyond the beads, verbal charms and everyday rituals reinforce their protective role.

 

Model wearing evil eye necklace with statement chain and red drop earrings


Common Beliefs

In Turkish culture, specific phrases and practices are used to ward off the evil eye:

  • Maşallah – Meaning "God has willed it", this is often said when giving compliments.
  • Allah korusun – Translates to "May God protect", commonly used for buildings, vehicles, or discussions about misfortune.
  • Allah bağışlasın – Meaning "May God provide health", this is specifically directed towards children.

Everyday rituals also play a role, such as avoiding excessive praise of children, tying red ribbons around their wrists, and incorporating eye motifs into textiles. These customs underline the deep-rooted significance of protection in daily life.

 

Meaning and Purpose

Far from being just a decorative symbol, the evil eye has been around for over 5,000 years, originating in Mesopotamia. Even today, it's widely believed to protect against negativity in regions like the Mediterranean and West Asia.

Protection Methods

The evil eye acts as a kind of cosmic mirror, reflecting harmful intent back to its source and neutralising curses. Different cultures have their own versions, such as Turkey's nazar boncuk, Greece's mati, and the Middle Eastern hamsa. Beyond protection, it also serves as a reminder to embrace positivity and avoid feelings of envy.

 

Signs of Good Fortune

While its primary purpose is to ward off harm, many believe the evil eye also invites positive energy. Wearers often associate it with bringing prosperity, personal development, and a sense of inner calm. Up next, explore how Turkish artisans incorporate these meanings into their jewellery designs.

Turkish Jewellery Making

Turkish artisans create jewellery that blends the symbolic power of the evil eye with eco-conscious practices, offering pieces that celebrate both heritage and responsibility.

Design Elements

At the heart of these designs is the nazar boncuk - a glass bead featuring shades of blue, white, yellow, and black[6]. This iconic motif is paired with recycled metals and semi-precious gemstones, combining traditional meaning with ethical craftsmanship.

Materials and Methods

Recycled brass is cast and plated with 18 ct or 21 ct gold, creating a durable and elegant finish. Semi-precious stones are carefully set around the glass bead, and each item undergoes meticulous plating and thorough inspection to ensure quality.

Istanbul Craftwork

In Istanbul’s intimate workshops, artisans skillfully blend age-old techniques with modern practices. Every piece reflects Turkey’s deep cultural ties to the evil eye while receiving the care and precision of handmade craftsmanship.

 

Wearing Evil Eye Jewellery

Styling Tips

Now that you know how these pieces are crafted, let's talk about wearing them with flair. Combine the symbolic meaning of the evil eye with your personal style. For a simple, understated look, stick to one standout piece. According to tradition, wearing a bracelet on your right wrist is said to enhance career and financial prospects, while wearing it on your left is believed to spark creativity.

When selecting jewellery for different occasions, think about the meaning behind the colours. The classic blue is associated with calm and protection, making it a versatile choice for both work and casual outings. For evening events, opt for pieces adorned with semi-precious gemstones and 21 ct gold-plated finishes.

Mixing Pieces

Create depth and texture by layering metals, gemstones, and pendants. Start with a key piece - like the Nazar Navy Evil Eye Necklace - and build your look around it.

For necklaces, pair a shorter evil eye pendant with longer chains for a cascading effect. When stacking bracelets, try this approach:

  • Base: Begin with an Evil Eye Bracelet as your focal point for protection.
  • Middle: Add a semi-precious gemstone necklace to bring in colour and texture.
  • Top: Finish with a delicate chain to add movement and a touch of light.

This layered look offers a balanced and stylish way to showcase your jewellery.

Choosing Quality Pieces

The quality of materials plays a big role in both durability and ethical sourcing. Look for jewellery crafted from recycled brass, finished with 21ct gold plating, and featuring semi-precious gemstones. A great example is the Evil Eye Stacking Bracelet Set, which combines recycled materials with detailed artisan craftsmanship.

When buying, check for a clearly defined evil eye motif, secure clasps, well-set stones, and even plating. Choose versatile designs that work for both day and night, such as the Cornicello Evil Eye and Turquoise Charm Bracelet. These details ensure your jewellery remains stylish and long-lasting.

Conclusion

Key Takeaways

The evil eye combines age-old traditions with modern aesthetics, representing protection and cultural significance. It appears in many forms, from the Turkish nazar boncugu to contemporary fine jewellery designs.

If you're looking to incorporate this meaningful symbol into your collection, here are some tips to guide you.

Choosing the Right Piece

Opt for handcrafted evil eye jewellery that aligns with your personal taste and respects its cultural roots. Look for designs that balance tradition with your daily style - whether you prefer understated pieces or bold statements.

 

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