Hamsa Hand Jewelry Meaning and Beautiful Designs
Hamsa jewelry is a big part of Moroccan history and culture. The Hamsa was and is still widely and generously incorporated into jewelry, decor, and fashion.
The popularity of the Hamsa in Moroccan culture is similar to its popularity in the Jewish culture, which is not a coincidence. Morocco was home to Jews till a few decades ago, in the 1960s, when hundreds of thousands of Moroccan Jewish families decided to migrate to Israel.
Moroccan Jews and Moroccan Muslims have an entwined history in Morocco. They used to live and share the same lifestyle, language, and craftsmanship, preserving their savoir-faire for generations. Now, Moroccan artisanal work is showcased by Muslims and Jewish artisans worldwide, and the hamsa is one example of this shared heritage.
What Does the Hamsa Hand Symbol Mean?
The Hamsa is a protective talisman widely used in North Africa and the Middle East to protect from misfortunes and the evil eye. In Morocco, the Hamsa is used in jewelry, decor pieces, and as patterns for fashion items. Most Moroccan women have at least one Hamsa jewelry piece, if not many
Hamsa Jewelry Celebrity Inspiration
Besides, Hamsa necklaces, bracelets, and pendants are trendy, and many celebrities have started wearing them. Their mystical background and engravings make them an interesting jewelry piece.
Hamsa Designs from Morocco
I often buy Hamsa jewelry, as it makes a symbolic and inspiring gift. I shop from Morocco whenever I go, but I also shop online, as I have identified a few artisans who have made amazing pieces throughout the years.
As a jewelry designer myself, my favorite Hamsa designs are those inspired by traditional Moroccan jewelry. They remind me of my grandmother’s beautiful jewelry, which mixed engravings, bold colors, and precious materials, like the red jade and silver hamsa below, available on Little Moroccan Things.
Hamsa from Israel
As I explained earlier, many Jews are of Moroccan origins, explaining why Hamsa jewelry is part of the Jewish heritage. Like in Morocco, when you walk through the markets of Israel, you are surprised by the abundance of displayed hamsas symbols in jewelry, clothing, and decor.
In Israel, the Hamsa, also called Khamsa, is widespread in popular culture. In 2018, the Jerusalem Museum of Islamic Art held an exhibition named Khamsa, Khamsa, Khamsa, entirely devoted to the Hamsa symbol and showcasing 555 different Hamsas.
Hamsa Jewelry Materials
The most important thing to check is the material of the Hamsa jewelry. While Hamsa jewelry pieces made with alloy will, in general, be the most affordable, there are, however, other compositions offering a good quality-price compromise.
In fact, with 925 silver sterling jewelry, the price of your piece will still be reasonable, and you can be guaranteed that your Hamsa jewelry will be very durable.
Traditional Berber Jewelry also showcases hamsa charms along with other protecting symbols. The picture below features a beautiful artisanal hamsa necklace with an antique hamsa charm and vintage gemstones from traditional Berber jewelry necklaces. A true piece of art!
Love the information
I will be visiting Morocco in July with my mother who was raised there and married a United States Marine, my father will be coming also. I wear a Hamsa everyday and I have multiple pendants. I enjoy reading you blog and appreciate what you have said. I am looking forward to the Medina’s and the food as well as the culture and visiting the Jewish areas where my mom would go.
Response from Moroccanzest
Thank you françoise, I am so happy my article spoke to you. And I feel you, our origins and roots are always part of our identity. Wish you and your parents the best time on your trip to Morocco. -xxx
my culture
Being a jew, I grew up with hamsa jewelry. My mother gifted me a hamsa necklace when I was 4 years old … it was my first piece of jewelry and I still have it! I keep it in my valuables box and I will try to pass it on to my daughter.
Beautiful hamsa designs
Thank you for sharing these designs so gorgeous
Memories
My first hamsa was gifted by my grandfather, who used to live in Morocco. He told me stories about this country and I hope I can visit one day!
great post
Now I know I need to take care of my silver hamsa necklace, who knows, I might give it to my future daughter
stunning pieces
I wanted a hamsa necklace for my friend birthday, so thank you for the recommendation. the gold plated hamsa necklace is perfection
Response from Moroccanzest
So happy about that! Hope your friend loves it! -xx
Oh
My friend who is of Moroccan origins gifted me a hamsa necklace, which I loved. I came here to learn more about the hamsa symbol. Thanks so much for the valuable info
out of stock
the silver necklace your recommended is out of stock, but I am keeping an eye on it! It is so beautiful! thank your for the amazing tips
Thank you
I was looking for a beautiful and affordable hamsa necklace and I love the one you recommended! Thank you!
beautiful
I carry a hamsa bracelet all the time. I am not superstitious but I have a special attachment to it. My father is of Moroccan origins and this reminds me of my heritage. Thank you for your amazing article and for the amazing pictures!
Last Updated on May 10, 2024 by Safaa (founder of moroccanzest)
From design and decor to food and travel, moroccanzest is the space where I share what I loved growing up in Morocco, and more. It’s your destination for everything beautiful, artistic, and made the Moroccan way with love.
Learn more about me here.
