Description
Unusual and sparkling 14k white and yellow gold twist chain with a cluster of talisman charms to ward off bad luck and inspire fellowship. A 14k gold cornicello, a 14k gold and mother of pearl mano cornuta, and an antique 10k gold Egyptian Revival Shriner's masonic symbol.
Sizing + Info
This charm necklace is vintage with an antique masonic charm.
The chain measures 16" from end to end.
Shipping
$10 standard shipping, free shipping on orders of $100 or more
Fun and Fellowship
The sign of the corna or sign of the horns is a common symbol in Italy and Mediterranean culture where, when confronted with unfortunate events or when these events are mentioned, the sign of the horns may be given to ward off bad luck and the malocchio or evil eye, one of the most ancient superstitions in Italy. The symbol is given with the fingers pointing down to seek protection in unlucky situations, a Mediterranean equivalent of knocking on wood.
The Italian horn amulet or corno is also a portafortuna, meaning lucky charm. Often associated with the sign of the corna, the horn is further protection against the evil eye, a curse thought to be caused by the jealousy and envy of others. Some know it as the devils horn amulet, because it was thought to be shaped like one of the devils horns, but the symbol actually predates Christianity by thousands of years. The original shape is thought to be that of the horn of an african eland (a genus of antelopes) or based on the horns of the old European moon goddess but the actual origins are debated.
The Egyptian Revival Shriner's Masonic piece is the symbol that represents The Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, a group formed in 1870 based on "fun, fellowship, and the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth."