SOLD Unusual Rhinestone Button 'Evil Eye' Bracelet

Jewelry : Vintage : Ethnic, Tribal : Evil Eye Bracelet

$102 USD SOLD
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We present a very unusual metalwork bracelet that has 'links' in the shape of eyes, with a bright blue rhinestone-studded button in each link. The effect, whether deliberate or accidental, is that of the bracelet having five eyes looking at you. This is due to the fact that the buttons are round white frosted glass set with blue faceted glass rhinestones, each one wired into the setting.

And what a setting! It looks as if one silver-tone wire was used to make this bracelet, twisted and knotted and woven in circles on itself. The delicate twisting and looping is a sight to behold and a testament to the maker's skill and patience.

Jewelry worn to ward off the 'Evil Eye' has been prevalent in the Middle East, East and West Africa, South Asia, Central Asia, and Europe, especially the Mediterranean region, for thousands of years; it has also spread to other areas, including northern Europe, particularly in the Celtic regions, and the Americas, where it was brought by European colonists and Middle Eastern immigrants. Pure speculation on our part, but after reading that some Hamsa hands have blue eyes and given the symbolism of the five fingers possibly being shown in the five links of the bracelet.......we lean toward a Jewish or Middle Eastern origin.

The fascinating bracelet measures 8" long; the central 'eye' is 1 1/16" wide. There are no markings at all. The clasp shows wear to the silver-tone finish, with what looks like copper underneath. the facets on the rhinestones are not sharp and crisp, rather they are rounded and worn, with a tiny chip or two to be seen under magnification.

Item ID: RL1103

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