What Is the Evil Eye (Nazar)? The Turkish Tradition Explained

The Evil Eye, known as Nazar in Turkish, is one of the oldest and most widespread superstitions in human history. For thousands of years, people across the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Central Asia have believed that a jealous or envious glance can bring misfortune to the recipient. In Turkey, this ancient belief remains deeply woven into daily life, and the cobalt blue glass amulet known as the Nazar Boncuğu is one of the most recognisable symbols of Turkish culture worldwide.

The Belief Behind the Bead

The concept of the evil eye predates written history. Ancient Sumerian texts from around 3000 BCE reference the malevolent gaze, and the belief appears throughout Greek, Roman, Jewish, Islamic, and Hindu traditions. In Turkish culture, the evil eye (nazar) is thought to be cast — often unintentionally — when someone looks upon another person, their child, home, or possessions with envy or excessive admiration.

The effects of the nazar are believed to range from minor inconveniences to serious illness or misfortune. A baby who falls ill after being praised by strangers, a car that breaks down after being admired, or a business that suddenly falters may all be attributed to the evil eye. The belief is so deeply embedded in Turkish culture that even those who consider themselves non-superstitious will often keep a Nazar Boncuğu nearby — just in case.

To counteract the nazar, Turks employ the Nazar Boncuğu — a circular glass charm featuring concentric rings of dark blue, white, light blue, and black that resemble a watchful eye. The amulet is believed to absorb or deflect the negative energy of envious gazes. When a Nazar Boncuğu cracks or breaks, it is traditionally interpreted as having successfully absorbed an evil eye attack, and it should be replaced promptly.

Why Blue?

The distinctive cobalt blue colour of the Nazar Boncuğu is not arbitrary. In Turkish and broader Mediterranean folklore, blue is considered a powerful protective colour. Some scholars suggest this association dates to ancient beliefs that the sky and sea — both blue — were protective forces of nature.

There is also a cultural dimension: in Turkey and the Middle East, blue or green eyes were historically less common and were sometimes viewed with suspicion. People with light-coloured eyes were more likely to be accused of casting the evil eye, and the blue colour of the amulet is thought to mirror and neutralise that specific threat.

Interestingly, the tradition of using eye-shaped amulets for protection can be traced to ancient Egypt, where the Eye of Horus served a similar symbolic function. The convergence of these ancient Mediterranean protective traditions has given us the distinctive blue eye charm we recognise today.

Where You Will See Them

In Turkey, Nazar Boncuğu amulets are truly ubiquitous. You will find them:

• In homes — hung above doorways, in living rooms, and near windows to protect the household
• On babies — pinned to infants’ clothing or attached to cribs and prams, since young children are considered especially vulnerable
• In vehicles — hanging from rear-view mirrors in cars, buses, and taxis
• In businesses — displayed prominently in shops, restaurants, and offices to ward off envious competitors
• On boats — painted on the hulls of fishing vessels along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts
• At celebrations — given as gifts at weddings, housewarmings, and the birth of a child

The tradition extends beyond Turkey to Greece (where it is called the mati), across the Arab world, and into parts of South Asia and Latin America. However, the Turkish glass bead version is the most widely recognised form globally.

The Craft Behind the Glass

Traditional Nazar Boncuğu beads are handmade by skilled glass artisans, with the town of Nazarköy near İzmir being the historic centre of production. The craft involves melting glass at extremely high temperatures and layering different coloured glass to create the distinctive concentric circles.

Each bead is individually formed using techniques passed down through generations of glassmakers. The artisan begins with molten dark blue glass, then layers white, light blue, and black glass in succession. The process requires precision timing and considerable skill — the glass must be worked quickly before it cools and hardens.

While mass-produced versions are now widely available, traditionally handcrafted Nazar beads are prized for their slight imperfections and organic character. Many Turks believe that only handmade beads carry genuine protective power, as the artisan imbues the glass with protective intention during the crafting process.

In 2014, the Turkish Nazar tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognising both the craft and the cultural beliefs surrounding it as significant aspects of Turkey’s heritage.

Types of Evil Eye Jewellery and Decor

While the classic glass bead remains the most traditional form, the Nazar motif now appears across a stunning range of products:

• Jewellery — pendants, bracelets, earrings, rings, and brooches in silver, gold, and gemstone settings
• Wall hangings — decorative macramé and beaded wall pieces incorporating multiple Nazar beads
• Ceramic tiles — hand-painted İznik-style tiles featuring the Evil Eye motif
• Textiles — cushion covers, table runners, and tea towels embroidered or printed with the Nazar design
• Keychains and accessories — small glass beads attached to keys, handbags, and phone cases

Bringing the Tradition Home

Incorporating Evil Eye elements into your home is a beautiful way to connect with Turkish culture while adding a striking design feature. The vivid cobalt blue of the Nazar Boncuğu complements a wide range of interior styles, from Mediterranean and bohemian to modern minimalist.

For an authentic touch, consider hanging a traditional glass Nazar bead above your front door — the traditional placement for maximum protection. Alternatively, a decorative Evil Eye wall hanging makes a stunning focal point in a living room or hallway. For subtler incorporation, Evil Eye cushion covers or a ceramic tile trivet can add a touch of Turkish charm to any space.

At Topkapı, we have curated a collection of beautiful Evil Eye and Nazar-inspired products, all available through Amazon UK with trusted delivery and returns. Browse our collection to find the perfect piece for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Evil Eye

What does the Evil Eye mean in Turkish culture?

The Evil Eye (Nazar) is a belief that envious or admiring glances can cause misfortune. In Turkish culture, the Nazar Boncuğu amulet — a blue glass charm with concentric circles resembling an eye — is used to absorb or deflect this negative energy. The tradition dates back thousands of years and remains deeply embedded in daily Turkish life.

What happens when a Nazar Boncuğu breaks?

When a Nazar Boncuğu cracks or shatters, it is traditionally believed to have successfully absorbed an evil eye attack directed at its owner. Rather than being seen as bad luck, a broken amulet is considered evidence that it did its job. The broken pieces should be discarded and the amulet replaced with a new one.

Can I buy a Nazar Boncuğu as a gift?

Yes, Nazar amulets are among the most popular gifts in Turkish culture. They are traditionally given at weddings, housewarmings, the birth of a child, and when someone acquires a new car or business. Giving a Nazar is a thoughtful way to wish someone protection and good fortune.

Where should I hang a Nazar in my home?

The most traditional placement is above or beside the front door, where it can protect the entire household. Other popular locations include living rooms, children’s bedrooms, and near windows. In Turkish culture, the amulet should face outward toward visitors and the outside world.