The Origin of the Lucky Turkish Evil Eye: A Symbol of Calm and Protection

A timeless symbol with a mindful message

The deep blue eye that glimmers from bracelets, necklaces, and doorways across Turkey isn’t just a decoration. It’s known as the Turkish Evil Eye, or nazar boncuğu, and it carries centuries of meaning. This small blue charm is believed to protect against negative energy — a symbol of mindfulness, awareness, and calm.

But what does the blue eye really mean in Turkey? And why has this ancient symbol found a new home in modern mindful living?

What does the evil eye mean in Turkey?

In Turkish culture, the blue eye is thought to ward off bad luck and envy. It represents protection from the “evil eye” — a metaphor for harmful thoughts or jealousy directed toward someone. You’ll see it hanging in homes, offices, cars, and even on newborn babies.

The Turkish word nazar translates to “glance” or “gaze”, reflecting the belief that negative energy can be passed through a look. The nazar boncuğu — literally “evil eye bead” — acts as a gentle barrier, absorbing this energy and restoring balance.

Where did the Turkish Evil Eye come from?

The origins of the evil eye symbol stretch back over 3,000 years, to ancient Mesopotamia, Greece, and Egypt. In these early civilisations, people feared that a powerful or envious look could bring misfortune. To protect themselves, they created amulets shaped like eyes, often made of glass or ceramic.

When the art of glassmaking flourished in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), these amulets evolved into the deep blue glass beads we recognise today. The colour blue — associated with peace, water, and the sky — became the signature of protection and serenity.

What does the Turkish lucky eye symbolise?

At its heart, the Turkish lucky eye is about awareness and protection. It serves as a reminder to stay grounded, compassionate, and mindful — shielding ourselves not only from external negativity but also from our own inner worries.

Modern wearers see it as a token of balance: a way to carry calm, attract positivity, and gently reflect unwanted energy away.

How do you wear the Turkish Evil Eye?

Traditionally, the evil eye can be worn as a bracelet, necklace, or ring — close to the body, where it can “see” and protect. There’s no strict rule about which side or hand to wear it on, but many choose the left side, which is said to connect to the heart and emotions.

Whether you wear it on your wrist, hang it by your door, or display it in your car, the intention matters most. It’s a reminder to move through life with calm confidence and positive energy.

Is it okay to buy or wear an evil eye for yourself?

Yes. In fact, gifting or buying the evil eye for yourself is a positive act of self-care and mindfulness. The tradition once emphasised receiving it as a gift, but today, it’s seen as a personal reminder to protect your peace and nurture your wellbeing.

How do you cleanse or recharge a nazar eye?

Many people believe the evil eye bead should be cleansed if it cracks or feels heavy with energy. This can be done by rinsing it under cool water, leaving it in sunlight for a short time, or simply setting an intention of release — visualising negative energy washing away.

For the spiritually minded, cleansing is less about ritual and more about reconnection and mindfulness — letting go of the day’s energy and beginning anew.

Can anyone wear an evil eye?

Absolutely. The symbol transcends religion, culture, and background. From Turkey to Greece, India, and the Middle East, it’s recognised globally as a universal emblem of protection and peace. Anyone who values mindfulness, positivity, and self-awareness can wear it.

The modern mindful meaning

Today, the nazar boncuğu has evolved from a superstition into a symbol of mindful living. It’s not just about shielding from bad luck — it’s about staying balanced in the face of daily stress.

Wearing the Lucky Turkish Evil Eye Bracelet from Spencer Vibes transforms an ancient tradition into a modern practice of calm intention. Every glance at its blue charm becomes a small reminder to pause, breathe, and return to peace.

A reflection of what we choose to see

The story of the Turkish Evil Eye is, at its core, a story about focus. What we look for, we find. When we see the world through a lens of awareness and kindness, we create our own protection — not from superstition, but from mindfulness itself.

The nazar reminds us that protection begins within: by choosing calm over chaos, gratitude over envy, and compassion over fear.

Bring the Meaning Home

Let your jewellery tell a story of calm and connection. Explore our collection of mindful designs inspired by the Turkish Evil Eye — each piece crafted to reflect protection, balance, and quiet confidence.

Discover the one that speaks to you in our range of Turkish Eye Jewellery.