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The Evil Eye
Jewelry for protection and style
One of the oldest multi-cultural symbols in human history is the "evil eye". Its origins may have originated in the ancient middle-east prior to Sumerian times, and like most things that old and enduring it's meaning is rooted in the occult, fear and hope.
The premise of the "evil eye" was that ne'er-do-well's might intentionally or inadvertently curse people they were envious of by giving them "the eye". One of the most common stories might be jealousy over a beautiful child, or of another's financial success. The curse could result in anything from sickness or lack of success to death itself, so naturally finding some sort of protection against it was important.
An example of how wide-spread the legend of the evil eye was (an still is), Jesus mentions it in Mark 7:22. Philosophers like Plutarch (Greek) and Pliny the Elder (Roman). The Illyrians, Egyptians, Scythians, Assyrians, Hittites, Babylonians and others all had the evil eye in their lore. Today the eye is a popular superstition around the globe - from Latin America, Africa, India and beyond.
Warding Off the Evil: Ancient Greek Talismans
First we should clear up a little confusion: The term "evil eye" refers not just to the curse, but also informally to the talisman created to protect against it. For instance the term "Mati" is the Greek word for "eye", and you'll see that on our site from time to time as a result.
These talismans were believed to reflect bad energy and keep people safe from misfortune. They were worn as jewelry or hung in homes to keep danger at bay.
The Evil Eye Today: Still Protecting
The ancient Egyptians often used stone or clay as a material for their talisman, but the Anatolians and Greeks advanced the craft through the use of hand blown blue glass. Today we see an advancement beyond that through the use of enamel, turquoise and precious stones such as emeralds, sapphires and diamonds.
The Evil Eye remains a popular symbol today, worn as jewelry or displayed in homes for protection. It’s become more than just a superstition—now it’s a reminder to keep negativity away while embracing positive energy. This ancient symbol fits perfectly into modern life.
The eye has been combined with other symbols (shown above with the Star of David and Cross and below with the Hamsa and Konstantinata).
The Hamsa (the Hand of Fatima) is of ancient Mesopotamian origin and was originally meant for similar protective purposes. "The Hand" has been adapted by the Carthaginians, Sephardic Jews and countless others, bringing more evidence to the evolving nature of symbology in human history.
We mentioned earlier that this is one of the most widespread and enduring symbols in human history ... it's precisely because at the core it represents a struggle between negative and positive forces ... which exists everywhere and has never gone away.
Our Evil Eye jewelry offers more than style—it’s a protective charm rooted in ancient tradition. Each piece blends the old with the new, giving you a way to carry both beauty and protection with you. Whether a bracelet or necklace, these pieces empower and connect you to a rich history.
Evil Eye Jewelry: Frequently Asked Questions
What does the evil eye symbol actually mean?
The evil eye (or "mati" in Greek) is a protective charm, not a curse itself. It's worn to reflect envious or ill-wishing glances back at whoever sent them, keeping the wearer safe from bad luck, illness, or misfortune. The symbol has been used this way across Greek, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cultures for thousands of years.
Is the evil eye Greek, or does it come from somewhere else?
Both. The belief in the "evil eye" curse predates the Greeks and shows up across the ancient Middle East, Egypt, and beyond. But the blue glass eye talisman most people picture today — the one we make in Greece — was developed and popularized by Greek and Anatolian glassmakers, and it's the form that spread around the world.
Do you have to be given evil eye jewelry, or can you buy it for yourself?
You can absolutely buy it for yourself. The old folk belief was that a gifted eye carries extra protective intention, which is why it's such a popular baby gift, graduation gift, or "thinking of you" piece. But there's no rule against choosing your own — plenty of our customers buy an evil eye bracelet or necklace simply because they love the look and what it represents.
Does the color of the evil eye matter?
Traditionally, blue is the color, since it echoes the hand-blown glass eyes first made in Greece and Anatolia — believed to work because light-colored eyes were once considered rare and unsettling, and so especially good at "staring down" bad energy. Today you'll also find evil eyes in enamel colors, turquoise, and gemstones. These are more decorative than traditional, but many people choose colors that suit their style or birthstone.
What happens if an evil eye piece breaks?
Old folk belief says a broken evil eye has "done its job" — it absorbed the negative energy directed at you and can be replaced. Practically speaking, most breakage happens with hand-blown glass or enamel pieces if they're knocked hard against something. It's not considered bad luck; it's simply time for a new one.
Can the evil eye be combined with a cross or other religious symbols?
Yes, and it's a common pairing in Greek jewelry, especially on baby pins and children's jewelry. It's worth knowing the evil eye itself is a folk tradition, not an Orthodox Christian one — but the two are worn together comfortably throughout Greece, often on a "filakto" (protective pin) alongside a cross or icon.
How should I wear evil eye jewelry — necklace, bracelet, or ring?
Any of the above; there's no fixed rule. Bracelets and necklaces are the most traditional, since the eye is meant to be visible and "watching." Rings and earrings are more modern takes. Many people also add a smaller eye charm to an existing bracelet or chain rather than wearing it as the main piece.
How do I clean and care for evil eye jewelry?
It depends on the material. Enamel and gemstone eyes should be wiped with a soft, dry cloth — avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, which can dull or crack enamel. Sterling silver settings can be polished with a silver cloth. Hand-blown glass eyes are durable day-to-day but, like any glass, should be kept away from hard knocks.