Evil Eye Bracelet: Meaning and Origins

Chances are you’ve seen the evil eye depicted in jewelry—from earrings to necklaces and bracelets to amulets. You may have even seen the symbol being worn by famous figures such as Meghan Markle, Jennifer Aniston, and Zayn Malik.

Though the concept of the evil eye has ancient origins dating back some 5,000 years, its popularity as both a fashion statement and a protective charm remains undisputed in our modern-day society.

In this article, we explore the meaning and history of the evil eye, including how different cultures have interpreted this famous symbol, what each color means, and some common misconceptions about it.

The Curse of the Gaze

For those still in the dark about the evil eye, it’s believed to be a malediction brought about by a malevolent glare, often inspired by malice or envy. The belief is that the evil eye will bring harm, suffering, or bad luck to its victims. In other words, giving someone the evil eye means you intend for something bad to happen to them.

In ancient times, there were varying beliefs about how a person came to possess an evil eye. Plutarch’s scientific explanation said the eye was a curse bestowed upon an unsuspecting target. He also said that evil eyes were deadly rays that sprang up from people who possessed them.

Others believed the evil eye curse appeared when a person became swollen with pride after receiving excessive praise. The person possessing the evil eye would then become enveloped in negative energy. This would lead them to suffer from bad luck and physical and mental illness.

Some also blamed the evil eye for diseases with no obvious cause. They believed the diseases were a punishment from the gods for those who had become too proud of their own achievements.

Origins of the Evil Eye

The evil eye is a quasi-universal symbol of protection that has its roots in several early civilizations, including ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome. The earliest known evidence of a belief in the evil eye traces back to around the 8th century BC, when it appeared on Chalcidian drinking vessels. Other early records include Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets from approximately 3,000 BC that mention a malevolent glare capable of bringing misfortune.

In ancient Greece, the evil eye was known as baskania, while the Romans called it fascinum. Many Greek philosophers and writers, such as Plato, Hesiod, and Plutarch, mentioned the evil eye in their works, highlighting its perceived power to inflict harm through jealousy and envy.

From there, the evil eye symbol spread to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions through trade and cultural exchanges, becoming a shared motif across various regions. The Silk Road played a significant role in disseminating the belief in the evil eye, allowing it to adapt to local customs and influencing the artistry of jewelry.

The Art and Craft of Ancient Evil Eye Amulets

Ancient cultures used a variety of methods to create evil eye amulets, each reflecting the materials, beliefs, and artistic traditions of the time. Here are some of the methods used by different ancient civilizations:

1. Glass bead making

One of the most recognizable forms of the evil eye amulet is the nazar boncuğu, a blue and white bead from Turkey. The evil eye bead is traditionally made by melting glass and molding it into a round shape, which is then painted with the iconic concentric circles that resemble an eye. This method dates back to approximately 1,500 BC in the Mediterranean, where glass bead production became popular among various cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans.

2. Ceramic and clay crafting

Before the widespread use of glass, older iterations of evil eye amulets were often made from ceramic or clay. These materials were shaped into eye motifs and used as protective symbols. Such amulets, dating back thousands of years, have been found in regions like the Middle East and Mediterranean.

3. Metal and gemstone jewelry

In ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, evil eye amulets were crafted using metals and gemstones. These materials were fashioned into eye-shaped pendants and other jewelry forms, often incorporating precious stones believed to possess protective qualities. Not only did the use of metals and gemstones provide durability, but it also added an element of status to the amulets.

Cultural and Religious Interpretations of the Evil Eye

As you can probably tell, the evil eye is one of the strongest symbolic images in the world. Its symbolism extends to almost every country and religion, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, reflecting a rich tapestry of beliefs and traditions. Many people wear evil eye jewelry to ward off negative energy and bring good luck.

In the Middle East, people commonly use the nazar boncuğu, a blue and white bead believed to ward off negative energy. These beads are often incorporated into jewelry and home decor, serving both protective and aesthetic purposes.

In India, the evil eye is known as drishti or nazar. Here, the threat of the evil eye is believed to be strongest during certain life events, such as puberty, marriage, and childbirth. Protective symbols and rituals are used to counteract its effects, such as drawing black dots on children’s foreheads or performing specific hand gestures. These practices stem from the cultural belief that the eye is a powerful energy source that can transmit both good and bad intentions.

In Latin America, the evil eye is often referred to as mal de ojo. Here, the belief in the symbol is deeply embedded in local folklore and spiritual practices. It is thought to be a harmful gaze capable of causing illness or misfortune, especially in children.

In the Greek and Mediterranean cultures, blue-eye amulets are used to protect against malevolent forces. The color blue is associated with water and the sky and is thought to symbolize protection and truth. These amulets are commonly worn as jewelry or displayed in homes to provide constant protection.

Similarly, in Islamic cultures, the evil eye is acknowledged, and the use of the Hamsa, a hand-shaped amulet with an eye in the center, is common. As with evil eye jewelry and amulets, the Hamsa is believed to have talismanic power to ward off bad intentions and is widely used in jewelry and home decor.

Colors of the Evil Eye

Evil eye amulets come in a variety of colors. The most popular color is deep blue, which symbolizes calm and relaxation, fate and karma protection, and the smooth flow of communication. However, it’s also common for people to wear multiple evil eye bracelets and other pieces at a time, as different colors can symbolize various protective qualities. Here is a list of the other evil eye colors, along with what they represent:

Orange Evil Eye – protection and happiness, motivation and commitment, playfulness and creativity

Dark Blue Evil Eye – calmness, fate protection, communication

Light Blue Evil Eye – general protection, peace, and solitude, broadening perspectives

Dark Green Evil Eye – balance, happiness, freedom

Red Evil Eye – energy and enthusiasm, courage, protection from fears

Brown Evil Eye – convention and order, connection with nature, protection from elements

Purple Evil Eye – imagination, life re-balance, removes obstacles

Yellow Evil Eye – concentration, relief from exhaustion, protection for health

Grey Evil Eye – opens the mind to new situations, protection from sorrow

Light Green Evil Eye – good health, contentment, success

White Evil Eye – focus and purity, removes clutter and obstacles

Pink Evil Eye – relaxation and contentment, calmness, protects friendships

The Evil Eye in Pop Culture

Over the years, the evil eye has become a significant trend in jewelry design and pop culture. Many A-listers have embraced this ancient symbol for its protective qualities and stylish appeal, contributing to its popularity and visibility in modern fashion.

Recently, Meghan Markle has been a notable figure in popularizing the evil eye symbol in jewelry. She first wore the Edge of Ember evil eye necklace during a virtual chat in April 2020, which quickly became a sought-after piece and sold out soon after.

However, the trend extends beyond Meghan Markle, with numerous celebrities incorporating evil eye jewelry into their wardrobes. For instance, Madonna has been seen wearing an evil eye bracelet and a hamsa hand pendant, demonstrating her belief in these protective symbols. Similarly, celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Zayn Malik, and Jennifer Aniston have been spotted with evil eye bracelets and evil eye necklaces, further cementing the symbol’s place in contemporary fashion.

The appeal of evil eye jewelry lies in its combination of protection, style, and cultural significance. The symbol has transcended its traditional roots to become a modern fashion staple, often seen in layering and stacking trends that enhance its visual appeal. The versatility of evil eye jewelry allows it to be worn in various forms, such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, making it a flexible accessory for different styles and occasions.

Post-Pandemic Popularity

There are many reasons for the popularity of evil eye jewelry among both celebrities and ordinary folk. An evil eye charm possesses global relevance, beauty, protection, and a hint of the supernatural.

The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, has heightened the desire for symbols of protection and well-being, contributing to the continued popularity of evil eye jewelry. The belief that these amulets can absorb negative energy, especially if they break or get lost, adds to their allure as both a protective charm and a fashion statement.

This dual purpose of beauty and protection resonates with consumers who seek both aesthetic and emotional reassurance in uncertain times.

Common Modern Misconceptions About the Evil Eye

The evil eye remains a topic of interest even in present-day society and is surrounded by several misconceptions. Here are some common ones and explanations for why they are false:

1. The evil eye is merely a superstition

Many individuals consider the evil eye to be no more than a superstition without any real basis. However, the belief in the evil eye is deeply rooted in a variety of cultures and religions, including Hindu, Islamic, Jewish, and Christian traditions. It is not merely a baseless superstition but a cultural belief that has been transferred from one generation to the next, representing societal values and fears about malice and envy.

2. Evil eye amulets are merely fashion accessories

While evil eye jewelry is a popular fashion accessory, its historical purpose is protective. Evil eye amulets are believed to ward off negative energy and protect the wearer from harm. The misconception arises when individuals wear such jewelry without understanding its cultural and historical significance, reducing it to just a fashion statement rather than a symbol of protection.

3. The evil eye is a universal concept with a single meaning

The evil eye is often mistakenly thought to have a single, universal meaning. In reality, its interpretation varies significantly across diverse cultures and religions. For example, in some cultures, it is associated with envy and malice; in others, it is linked to divine retribution for excessive pride.

Practical Tips for Buyers

When purchasing evil eye jewelry, it’s crucial to ensure authenticity and understand how to maintain the item to retain its energy and protective qualities. Here are some practical tips for buyers:

• Verify the authenticity of the evil eye bracelet by checking the materials and craftsmanship.
• Understand the meaning and symbolism behind the color of the evil eye.
• Wear the evil eye bracelet on the left wrist to promote emotional and interpersonal matters.
• Avoid wearing the evil eye bracelet on the right wrist if you’re looking to improve your career and finances.
• Consider wearing multiple evil eye amulets to bring additional protection and good luck.
• Keep the evil eye bracelet away from harsh chemicals and perfumes to prevent discoloration.

Care and Maintenance

To keep your evil eye jewelry looking its best, follow these care and maintenance tips:

• Avoid wearing your evil eye bracelet while swimming, showering, or exercising.
• Use a soft cloth to gently clean the jewelry and store it in a jewelry box or pouch to prevent scratching.
• Regularly inspect the jewelry for any loose stones or damage, and have it professionally cleaned and maintained if needed.
• Consider recharging the evil eye bracelet by placing it in morning sunlight or during a full moon overnight.
• Replace the evil eye bracelet if it breaks, as it is believed to lose some of its protective powers if not replaced immediately.

Closing Thoughts

The evil eye symbol is thousands of years old. It’s believed to have originated in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome. The symbol then spread across the globe and became embedded within numerous cultures and religions.

Depending on where you are in the world, the evil eye is seen as either an apotropaic symbol of protection against negative energy and bad luck or as a curse that is thought to be transmitted through the malevolent glare of one person to another.

To protect themselves against the latter, many people wear evil eye jewelry, such as bracelets or necklaces. These charms are available in various colors, each representing different meanings, such as calmness, energy, and good health.

Today, the evil eye is a popular motif in modern jewelry that has been embraced by celebrity culture. It symbolizes protection and beauty, which made it an especially popular symbol during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is evil eye jewelry?

Evil eye jewelry is a popular form of protection against negative energies and evil spirits. It is believed to ward off malice or envy directed towards the wearer. The evil eye symbol is often depicted as a blue eye, representing an all-seeing eye that watches over the wearer. Evil eye jewelry comes in various forms, including necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and other items. It can be made from various materials, including glass, metal, and precious stones.

Is the evil eye good or bad?

Generally, the evil eye is considered a negative force, as it is believed to be a curse that can bring harm, misfortune, or illness to its targets. However, the evil eye has also led to the creation of protective measures and symbols, such as amulets and talismans, which are designed to deflect its negative effects. These protective charms, like the nazar boncuğu or the Hamsa, are widely used and carry positive connotations as symbols of protection and good luck.

What does wearing evil eye jewelry protect you from?

Traditionally, wearing an evil eye symbol is believed to protect you from various forms of harm and negative influences, especially those stemming from envy or malicious intentions. It is also believed to shield the wearer from general misfortune, such as accidents, financial loss, and other forms of bad luck.

What are the benefits of wearing an evil eye bracelet?

The main benefit of wearing an evil eye bracelet is its perceived ability to absorb negative energy, warding off harmful intentions directed towards the wearer. An evil eye bracelet can also be a stylish accessory that offers protection and good fortune while serving as a reminder of the wearer’s connection to a larger cultural or spiritual tradition, providing a sense of security and comfort.

How do I choose an evil eye bracelet?

When choosing an evil eye bracelet, it’s essential to consider the material and quality of the bracelet. Genuine evil eye bracelets are often made from high-quality materials like glass, gold, or silver. The color of the evil eye represents different aspects of protection, luck, and energy. Blue is the most common color, believed to bring calmness and promote healthy conversation. Other colors, such as red, pink, black, and white, each have their own meaning and symbolism.