Antique 18K & Coral Figa Charm/Pendant

The Figa has its roots in ancient Etruscan Italy. In the ensuing millennia, it has been used to symbolize fertility, to invoke various goddesses, and to protect against evil. During colonization in the 17th century, it washed up on the shores of South America and became a symbol of good luck in Brazil and Peru, used to ward away the "evil eye". In ancient times it was worn as an incantation to The Goddess, a call for fertility, virility and good times. For thousands of years, coral has been thought to bring good luck and protection to the wearer. Amulets and beads were fashioned from coral and mothers placed them around their babies' necks, wrists and ankles to guard against the 'evil eye'. Popular to wear in the eighteenth through the twentieth centuries, coral was overharvested, and restrictions have been applied to the modern usage of this material. Finding an antique coral Figa with this deep orange color is becoming more and more rare today. Simply but realistically carved, it is a vibrant tangerine hue and is capped and baled in 18 karat yellow gold. The perfect piece to wear for double protection! Details (approximate) Dimensions: 1.75" Weight: 11.7 grams Materials: Gold, Coral Metal: 18K yellow gold Marks: None Condition: Excellent antique condition commensurate with age and wear