Introducing the Italian cornicello, or the “horn of plenty,” as you might’ve heard it called before.
Let’s chat about why you might need one...
A cornicello is a traditional Italian amulet resembling a twisted horn, believed to ward off the malocchio (evil eye) and bring good luck, strength, prosperity, and protection.
It’s a fascinating talisman, rich in history, superstition, and cultural symbolism. Today, it’s not unusual to see them hanging from the necks of men, women, and even children all over the world.
Here are a few legends surrounding the cornicello that we think you'll find intriguing...
The cornicello has roots in ancient Italy, where farmers and shepherds would carve horn-shaped charms from animal bones or wood to fend off misfortune. The horn itself is thought to symbolise fertility and virility - a nod to ancient pagan deities like Priapus and Diana, who were associated with nature, reproduction, and abundance.
In Naples, where superstition runs deep, this motif is taken very seriously. One local legend tells of a man plagued by bad luck - a lost job, a broken engagement, and ongoing illness. An old woman at the market urged him to buy a cornicello from her stall. Out of desperation, he did - and soon, his luck began to change. He recovered, found new love, and landed a job. The woman was believed to be a fattucchiera (a folk witch), and the charm had “broken” his curse.
These charms were often passed down through generations, believed to gain strength and power with age.
There’s even a saying: if a cornicello breaks, it means it’s done its job - absorbing the bad energy or protecting you from harm.
Isn’t it amazing how something so simple-looking can carry such a powerful back story?
We only have one left in stock and it’s just £59, click the link below to shop it.
https://eloisejewellery.com/products/large-vintage-9ct-yellow-gold-italian-cornicello-lucky-charm