Lucky Charms of Afghanistan

Afghanistan sits at the crossroads of Persian, Turkic, South Asian, and Central Asian charm traditions, all filtered through centuries of Islamic devotion. The evil eye (nazar) is the supreme concern: blue glass beads (nazarband) are pinned to babies' clothing, hung from doorways, and attached to vehicles throughout the country. The hand of Fatima appears on jewelry, door knockers, and embroidery as a powerful ward against harm.

Lapis lazuli — mined in the mountains of Badakhshan for over six thousand years — was considered a stone of divine protection by ancient Afghans and continues to be made into amulets and jewelry. The tawiz (written Quranic charm sealed in metal or cloth) is carried by soldiers and civilians alike for protection in conflict. The pomegranate, abundant in Afghan orchards, symbolizes prosperity and unity.