Amulet
An amulet is an object considered to have magical protective properties. Different from a talisman: amulet protects (defensive), talisman attracts (active). Practices documented in virtually every culture: Egyptian scarabs, Mediterranean evil eye, Italian cornicello, Brazilian figa, Turkish nazar boncuğu (blue eye).
Common examples
- Cornicello (Italy) — red horn against evil eye.
- Hamsa (Middle East) — Hand of Fatima.
- Crucifix (Christianity) — apotropaic protection.
- Mezuzah (Judaism) — scroll on door.