This beautiful little bracelet is made from black agate. It fits all sizes as it stretches. Like all black gemstones, it is a protective and grounding crystal. Historically agate was placed in water for cooking or drinking to dispel sickness.
Agate is known to attract good fortune into one's life and eliminate bad luck. It brings courage and success in competition and the hamsa charm offers protection.
The word hamsa comes from the Hebrew word hamesh, meaning five. Hamsa refers to the fact that there are five fingers on the talisman, though some also believe it represents the five books of the Torah (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy).
In Islam, the hamsa is called the Hand of Fatima, in honour of one of the daughters of the Prophet Mohammed. Some say that, in Islamic tradition, the five fingers represent the Five Pillars of Islam. In fact, one of the most potent early examples of the hamsa in use appears on the Gate of Judgment (Puerta Judiciaria) of the 14th-century Spanish Islamic fortress, the Alhambra.
Many scholars believe that the hamsa predates both Judaism and Islam, possibly with origins that are entirely non-religious, although ultimately there is no certainty about its origins.
Symbolism of the Hamsa
In addition to being shaped like an oddly formed hand, the hamsa will often have an eye displayed in the palm of the hand. The eye is thought to be a powerful talisman against the “evil eye”.
In modern times, the hamsa is often featured on jewellery, hanging in the home, or as a larger design. However it is displayed, the amulet is thought to bring good luck and happiness.