Carved amber hand surmounted by a gold cap with bead and rope decoration, circa 1870, the pendant loop and trace chain of later date; 38 mm long, loop included. For centuries the Figa hand charm has been used to ward off evil and bring good luck. It is believed to have originated in ancient Greece or Rome and was later adopted by the Catholic Church. It became a popular symbol in many cultures, particularly in Mediterranean and Latin American countries.