Translations of the Old Testament and various West Asian cultures believe in the curse of the “evil eye” which could lead to injury or misfortune. To ward off this curse, talismans called “evil eyes” were created. They are a common charm included in jewelry across Greece, Southern Italy, Egypt, Turkey, and many other countries for their protection, while tourists search them out as souvenirs.

In West Asia among other cultures, the “ Hamsa hand” is a charm adapted from the evil eye theme in which a blue or green eye sits in the palm of a hand-shaped talisman and specifically acts to turn away harm. In Turkey, the “nazar” is the representation of the evil eye in which a teardrop shape is dark blue with light blue, black, and white is incorporated on clothing, car accessories, and home décor.

The Aegean Region of the world has adopted the blue color to the evil eye amulet because of the rarity of this eye

 color in these areas. It is believed that the individuals with the lighter colored eyes are thought to confer the curse.

There are many imitators that try to create the evil eye in it’s true form, but few designers can replicate it to match the iconic pieces they came to be known for. From  Aaron Basha to KC Designs, and Monica Rich Kosann to Halcyon Days, these luxury designers make the perfect pieces that will ward off evil spirits and add style at the same time. The perfect place to find Aaron Basha’s pieces and more luxury designers is at Woodrow Jewelers of Rye, NY online and in store. Even Sophia Vergara and  Kim Kardashian have joined the movement to keep evil from their lives with the evil eye on their necklace as a pendant or on their wrist.

KC Designs carries various Hamsa hand and evil eye pieces in some dazzling, less traditional, and diamond adorned styles that will turn away harm.  Monica Rich Kosann, most well known for her locket designs also found at Woodrow Jewelers in Rye, NY, has an adorable, delicate “Protect” ring with an evil eye as its focus. London-based company  Halcyon Days has joined the fight against evil with their stunning enamel cuff bracelet and cufflinks that are hand-painted with evil eye figures.

If you haven’t bought into the evil eye premise yet, here are some other ways people feel they can protect themselves from bad juju.  Turmeric, a spice used in cooking, is believed to create a protective shield if rubbed on the body and even more power if taken orally. A basil plant is thought to come from the goddess Lakshmi as a Hindu element used in the home to ward off evil. The “Om” symbol is from the Sanskrit alphabet that means to destroy evil, and can be displayed at home to provide a positive “aura”. But if you’re not much of a green thumb, hate strong spices, or unsure of how a Sanskrit symbol will go over with your in-laws, stick with the evil eye and keep it on your person.