The evil eye is a “look” or “stare” that is believed to bring bad luck to the person at whom it is directed for reasons of envy or dislikes. The perception of the nature of the phenomenon, its causes, and possible protective measures, varies between tribes and cultures.

Tell us about the history of the evil eye.

A quasi-universal symbol of protection, the evil eye is referred to as μάτι (mati) in Greek. The concept and the significance of the evil eye are especially prominent in the Mediterranean and West Asia.

The evil eye is a “look” or “stare” that is believed to bring bad luck to the person at whom it is directed for reasons of envy or dislikes. The perception of the nature of the phenomenon, its causes, and possible protective measures, varies between tribes and cultures. The eye is a talisman that is meant to protect you from these evil spirits.

The eye is a ‘look’ or ‘stare’ believed to bring bad luck to the person at whom it is directed

Belief in the evil eye—“mati”—dates back to Greek Classical antiquity, to at least the 6^th century B.C. when it appeared on drinking vessels. It is referenced by Plato, Hesiod, Plutarch, and many more classical authors who attempted both to describe and explain the function of the evil eye.

Plutarch’s scientific explanation stated that the eyes were the chief, if not sole, source of the deadly rays that were supposed to spring up like poisoned darts from the inner recesses of a person possessing the eye. It is a curse or legend believed to be cast by this malevolent glare and usually given to a person when they are unaware.

An evil eye is a talisman or amulet, designed in the shape of an eye, traditionally in the colors blue or green, that indicate spiritual protection. These talismans or evil eye “repellents” come in different shapes and forms as pendants, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Or can be hanging in a glass bead form over the main door or entrance of someone’s home to keep the hearth protected.

When did you start wearing one?

My mother would put an eye pin on my crib to make sure any negative energy directed at me would be turned back and I would be protected and safe. Around the age of 6, I got my first piece of jewelry which was a small gold ID bracelet with a tiny evil eye charm hanging from it.

Do you wear one always?

Since I was a child I wear an eye either as a pendant, ring, or earring on several occasions, especially at times when I feel additional protection is needed, though not necessarily every day.

As a designer, besides the talismanic aspect, what is so alluring about this shape?

Aside from its symbolism, which I embrace, for me, the eyes are the most powerful and meaningful part of the human body. People’s eyes always fascinate me and that is what inspires me in creating a piece of jewelry that imitates the shape of the eye and hopefully also incorporates its strength of it.