Levantine Openwork Sterling Silver Hamsa Amulet with Glass Evil Eye
Jewelry (Pendant/Amulet) · Unidentified artisan workshop, likely based in the Mediterranean or Middle Eastern regions (Israel, Turkey, or Morocco). These items are often produced by regional silversmiths specializing in Judaica or talismanic folk jewelry.
Pattern: Traditional Filigree-style Hamsa with Central Nazar (Evil Eye) motif. This is a recurring folk pattern rather than a branded commercial collection.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Amulet)
Maker
Unidentified artisan workshop, likely based in the Mediterranean or Middle Eastern regions (Israel, Turkey, or Morocco). These items are often produced by regional silversmiths specializing in Judaica or talismanic folk jewelry.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Alloy. Features a central inset of polychrome lampworked glass (Nazar). The silver contains an intentional oxidized patina to highlight the recessed openwork.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 4.5–6.0 cm (excluding bail); Estimated width: 3.5–4.5 cm. Estimated weight: 12–20 grams of silver alloy.
Description
A striking silver Hamsa pendant featuring intricate openwork scrollwork and stylized floral rosettes. At the palm's center sits a vibrant blue and white glass evil eye, designed to protect the wearer from malevolent gazes. The symmetrical hand design, common in contemporary jewelry, blends Jewish and Islamic artistic traditions into a universal symbol of protection and good fortune.
Key Features
Symmetrical hand shape; central glass eye insert; 'faux-filigree' cast texture; oxidized recesses for high contrast; five-fingered protection motif.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Alloy. Features a central inset of polychrome lampworked glass (Nazar). The silver contains an intentional oxidized patina to highlight the recessed openwork.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized antique finish with cast openwork (intertwined scrolls and floral rosettes). The design mimics traditional Yemenite filigree. It features a symmetrical 'Hamsa' hand shape with five fingers and a central glass ocular insert.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are visible on the obverse face. On such pieces, a small '.925' or maker's initials are typically stamped on the reverse side or on the suspension bail (not pictured).
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting or die-cast method designed to simulate handmade filigree. The glass 'eye' is bezel-set or glued into a central circular recess. The openwork is achieved through the mold rather than manual wire-work.
Functional Features
Prophylactic amulet designed to ward off the 'Evil Eye'. Includes geometric perforations for weight reduction and aesthetic transparency.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Pendant/Amulet form.
Craftsmanship Details
The piece shows good symmetry and a clean 'eye' placement, but the repetitive nature of the 'filigree' elements indicates a mold-cast production rather than a one-of-a-kind hand-wrought artisan piece.
Authentication Indicators
The color of the tarnish and the soft luster of the raised edges are consistent with silver. However, the lack of visible hallmarks in the image and the commonality of silver-plated base metal versions of this design necessitate a magnet test and acid test for confirmation.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Israel, Turkey, or Greece. These regions have a long-standing tradition of mass-producing silver talismans for both local religious use and the global tourist/spiritual market.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Folk Art (Late 20th Century to Present). While the design is rooted in ancient Middle Eastern and North African motifs, the manufacturing technique is modern.
Age Estimate
Estimated production: 1990–present. The consistency of the cast pattern and the style of the glass bead suggest a modern commercial origin.
Cultural Significance
Represents a bridge between religious ritual and modern fashion. The Hamsa is a pervasive symbol of protection across the Mediterranean, and such silver items serve as accessible cultural touchstones for pilgrims and travelers.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. There is minor surface tarnish consistent with silver; no visible cracks in the glass; the cast metal edges appear crisp. The heavy oxidation in the recesses is intentional.
Value Estimate
$25–$65 USD depending on verified silver weight and hallmark presence. Non-hallmarked silver-plated versions typically retail for $10–$15.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth. Avoid chemical 'dips' which will strip the decorative black oxidation from the recesses. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they may loosen the glass insert or crack the glass bead.
Similar Pieces
Yemenite Hand-Wired Filigree Hamsas (higher value, genuine wire work); Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso Hamsa (minimalist, modern high-end); Turkish Enamel Evil Eye Pendants (metal-focus vs glass-focus).
Interesting Facts
The Hamsa is also known as the Hand of Fatima (Islam) or the Hand of Miriam (Judaism). The combination of the Hamsa and the Evil Eye (Nazar) combines two distinct protective traditions into one 'double-strength' amulet.