Vintage silver and coral Hand of Fatima amulet pendant

A vintage amulet pendant from Tunisia, this Khamsa, or Hand of Fatima, is made of open-work silver with an inlaid coral bead.

The name comes from Mohammed’s daughter Fatima and the five fingers represent the five pillars of Islam, the coral bead at the centre of the palm representing an eye.

The Khamsa hand was used by the people of Carthage (Tunisia) in 800 BC. Recent archeological discoveries, however, date the Khamsa back as far as 1500 BC to ancient Mesopotamia (Iraq).

A symbol used for protection in both Islamic and Jewish cultures, where they are known as the Hand of Maryam after the sister of Moses, Khamsas are also amulets that ward off negative energy and bring good luck to the wearer.

Can be worn on a silver chain, on a hoop earring or on a charm bracelet.

Dimensions: 2cm x 3.25cm