925 Sterling silver
Size: 0.7" X 1" / 1.8 X 2.5 cm
With its three middle fingers joined, pinky and thumb turned outward, this hamsa is typical of the Maghreb lands. Made in filigree decorated with floral motifs, the hamsa is the most favored amulet in the Muslim world, especially in North Africa. Jews in the Maghreb lands adopted the hamsa and added their own symbols and inscriptions to them.
Amulets were intended to guard their owners' families and property from natural disasters, spells, and evil spirits. Some were used to heal sickess and cure infertility; others were meant to shield the traveler from peril, to promote success and bounty, and even to secure the affection of friends and lovers.
This item comes with a lovely sterling silver snake chain in your choice of length.
This item comes with a certificate of authenticity of the Israel Museum, Jerusalem together with a description of its historical background in English and Hebrew.