The Evil Eye Horn...

I have seen this shape of pendant over the years but didn't think it meant anything in particular... little did I know it is an ancient symbol originating in Italy. It has various names - Italian Horn, Corno, Cornicello, Evil Eye Horn - but is believed to protect against the 'evil eye' (a bit like the Hamsa). 

The term 'evil eye' originated in Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean countries and was the name given to a sickness transmitted - usually unintentionally - by someone who is envious or jealous. The idea was the that a person can harm you, your family, your livestock, orchards etc by looking at them with envy. So various protective charms and spells were invented to ward off the evil, among them this horn symbol.  

These charms are made of pressed coral which has been dyed black, red or ivory. They look great alone or with another charm, seen here with a horseshoe for extra luck. 

The horns are located in the 'Natural Pendants' category, to view click here