Evil Eye Beads and Jewelry - History, Meaning, and Lore

Humans have long believed the eye symbol to be an amulet that wards off evil spirits. History references the use of "evil eye" beads in the ancient Orient and Sumeria from 3000 B.C. This belief is still prevalent in Turkey and areas of the Middle East, where many believe that when someone sees your good fortune and is envious, some type of bad luck will befall you. In fact, it is thought that any type of praise, even well meaning, has some form of greed and jealousy attached, and can cause harm. In that part of the world people with colored eyes are believed to be especially harmful with their unusual and enchanting gazes.

To protect against the negative energy of envious looks, people of Middle Eastern societies often use an evil eye bead, or talisman, to redirect the bad spirits back onto the world and keep the bearer safe. Turkish people call the bead "Nazar Boncuk" and versions of it are seen everywhere in their culture. Whether it is displayed at the entrance to a home or office, attached to a baby's clothing, or hung from a car mirror, the intent is the same, to disperse the bad luck away from the owner.

Evil eye beads are a single eye image typically set in a blue background color. Usually they are made of glass but other materials include agate, common stone, and Lucite. Blue is symbolic of water and prosperity in the Middle East, where it is a precious resource. Red is also a common color, as Jewish lore associates red with luck and good fortune.

There are many different colored evil eye beads used in jewelry, and they are worn as a fashion accessory as well as a good luck charm. A brief search on the internet reveals evil eye beads sold as charm bracelets, pendants, rings, and anklets. Thanks to on-line websites one can find antique and newly manufactured beads alike, in an assortment of styles and sizes to coordinate with any wardrobe. As a result they are becoming more visible in Western cultures. Look for them to become collectible items, especially in jewelry as their popularity grows.