The evil eye is one of the oldest symbols in jewellery. Usually a blue eye set in white, it has been worn for centuries as a sign of watching over someone. When we give one, it says something simple: I'm looking out for you.
It is also one of our most loved designs. Here is the story behind it, what it means today, and how to choose a piece for yourself or someone you care about.
What does the evil eye mean?
In many cultures there is an old belief that a jealous or envious look can bring bad luck. The evil eye charm is the answer to that look. It is an eye that looks back, worn as a symbol of watching over the person who wears it.
Today most people wear it for what it says rather than as a superstition. It has become a way of showing care: a reminder that someone is thinking of you and wishing you well.
Where does the evil eye come from?
The idea of the evil eye appears in writing from ancient Greece and Rome, and versions of the symbol are found across the Mediterranean, the Middle East and South Asia. Each place has its own name for it:
- Nazar in Turkey, where the blue glass nazar bead is hung in homes, cars and doorways
- Mati in Greece, often given to new babies and worn as a bracelet
- Ayin hara in Jewish tradition
It is often paired with the Hamsa, an open hand symbol with its own long history of watching over the wearer. You will see the two together in our charm jewellery.
Why is the evil eye blue?
Blue is the classic colour, from the deep cobalt of Turkish glass beads to the paler blues of modern designs. The rings of blue, white and black are what make the symbol instantly recognisable. Some modern pieces come in other colours, but blue remains the traditional choice and the one most people picture.
Who should you give an evil eye to?
Because it says I'm looking out for you, the evil eye suits moments when someone is starting something new or facing something hard. It is a lovely gift for:
- A friend starting a new job or moving home
- Someone heading off to university or travelling
- A new mum, or a new baby's family
- A sister, a daughter or a best friend you worry about
- Someone going through a difficult time, as a quiet reminder that you are there
Friendship bracelets are often bought in pairs, one to give and one to keep, so you both carry the same reminder.
Can you buy an evil eye for yourself?
Yes. Some traditions say an evil eye is best received as a gift, but plenty of people choose one for themselves, as a small piece of reassurance they can wear every day. There is no wrong way to start.
How to wear evil eye jewellery
- Necklace: a small pendant on a fine chain sits close to the heart and layers easily with a plain chain.
- Bracelet: the most traditional way to wear it, and the easiest to stack with a bangle or birthstone bracelet.
- Earrings: small studs or charm hoops are subtle enough to wear every day.
- Ring: a slim stacking ring, or our fidget spinner ring, which turns on the band.
There is no rule about which side or which hand. Wear it where you will see it.
What does it mean if an evil eye breaks?
In Turkish tradition, a cracked or broken nazar bead is often said to have done its job. Many people simply replace it with a new one. If one of our pieces is damaged, our 1 year guarantee covers manufacturing faults.
Our evil eye pieces
Our evil eye collection comes in gold and silver tones, with each product page listing the exact metal. A few of our most loved pieces:
- Evil Eye Charm Bracelet, our best seller
- Turkish Blue Evil Eye Minimalist Bangle, slim enough to stack
- Turkish Evil Eye Pendant Charm Necklace, in gold or silver
- Turkish Blue Evil Eye Charm Friendship Bracelet, one to give and one to keep
- Evil Eye Fidget Spinner Friendship Ring
- Turkish Evil Eye Nazar Stud Earrings
Browse the full evil eye jewellery collection, or shop by necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings.
Caring for your evil eye jewellery
Put your jewellery on after perfume and lotion, take it off before swimming or showering, and wipe it with a soft cloth after wearing. Store each piece separately so the enamel eye does not get scratched. Our care guide has more tips.
Evil eye questions, answered
What does the evil eye symbolise?
It is a symbol of watching over someone. Giving one says I'm looking out for you.
Is it bad luck to buy your own evil eye?
No. Some traditions say it is best given as a gift, but many people buy one for themselves.
Which wrist should I wear an evil eye bracelet on?
Either. There is no fixed rule, so wear it where you will see it most.
What is the difference between the evil eye and the Hamsa?
The evil eye is an eye, usually blue. The Hamsa is an open hand. Both have long been worn as symbols of watching over the wearer, and they are often combined.
Is an evil eye a good gift?
Yes, especially for a friend starting something new, a new mum or anyone you want to keep close. Every website order can include a free gift note, and luxury gift packaging is £5.
For more on the stones and symbols we use, read our meaning guide, or let the gift finder suggest a piece.
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