Can jewellery have protective powers?
Nowadays, jewellery is primarily associated with decoration and an addition to an outfit, but it was not always so. Necklaces, bracelets, and rings have accompanied humans since the dawn of time, when they served as amulets or talismans. The same symbols are still worn, but do you remember what they once meant – or still mean to some cultures? You'll find out by reading our post!
Hamsa jewellery
The Hamsa, also referred to as the Hand of Fatima in Islamic culture or the Hand of Miriam in Jewish tradition, is an ancient symbol depicting an open hand with an eye placed in the center. Its name comes from the Arabic word "khamsa" meaning the number five, which refers to both the fingers of the hand and the pillars of Islam. The history of Hamsa dates back to ancient times, where it was used as an amulet to protect against the "evil eye". In ancient Egypt, the hand symbol was associated with the god Horus, a representation of conscience from which one cannot escape. In Judaism it meant protection and blessings. Today, the diamond pendant with Hamsa remains a popular jewellery motif, valued both for its beautiful appearance and its supposed protective properties.
Defend yourself against the Evil Eye
Many cultures around the world believe in the existence of the "evil eye" – a power attributed to a jealous or hostile gaze that can bring misfortune, illness, or even death to people or animals. The origins of this belief date back to antiquity. The first mentions come from Mesopotamia, where it was believed that an envious look could bring bad luck or harm. In ancient Greece and Rome, people also believed in the power of the malevolent gaze; Pliny the Elder, among others, described it as a real threat that could affect unsuspecting people. Therefore, protective amulets were used in various cultures, such as the "nazar" – a blue bead resembling an eye, popular in Turkey and Greece, or the previously mentioned "hamsa". The belief in the power of this symbol has survived for thousands of years, so it may be worth equipping yourself with an evil eye turquoise diamond necklace to ward off unexpected threats…
The meaning of birthstones
Birthstones are traditionally assigned special meanings and properties. Their history dates back to antiquity, and one of the earliest references is the biblical breastplate of the high priest Aaron, decorated with twelve jewels symbolizing the tribes of Israel. It was not until 1912 that the American National Jewelers Association (now Jewelers of America) standardized the list of these stones, assigning a specific mineral to each month, which contributed to the popularization of this tradition in Western culture. Wearing a birthstone necklace is said to bring good luck, provide protection, and maintain positive energy. What properties would your amulet have?
- January: Garnet – symbolizes friendship, strength, and protection.
- February: Amethyst – is associated with harmony, peace, and creativity.
- March: Aquamarine – signifies courage and honesty.
- April: Diamond – symbolizes purity, love and eternity.
- May: Emerald – signifies hope, rebirth and loyalty.
- June: Pearl or Alexandrite – attributed to them: innocence, balance, as well as happiness.
- July: Ruby – expresses energy, love or passion.
- August: Peridot – is associated with protection, prosperity and joy.
- September: Sapphire – signifies wisdom, loyalty and purity.
- October: Tourmaline or Opal – represents creativity, love, and also hope.
- November: Citrine or Topaz – symbolizes joy, abundance and success.
- December: Turquoise, Zircon or Tanzanite – are attributed with protection, sincerity and spiritual balance.
Jewellery, therefore, has always had a deeper meaning. Whether you wear a Hamsa, an evil eye pendant, or a birthstone, each of these pieces has unique symbolism that has survived for millennia. While some treat them merely as beautiful accesories, for others they remain a source of protection and spiritual support. Or maybe it is the belief in their power that makes them so special? One thing is certain – jewellery can still combine symbolism and personal value, being much more than just decoration.