The hamsa — also written chamseh or hamseh — is the open hand worn as a sign of protection across Jewish and Middle Eastern tradition. Every piece on this page is solid .925 sterling silver, stamped and guaranteed authentic, never silver over base metal. Most are polished; some are antiqued so the recesses read darker and the raised hand stands out. Several carry a rhodium finish over the silver, which resists tarnish and keeps the white color bright. A few are set with cubic zirconia. For the same symbol in gold, see hamsa pendants in 14K and 10K gold.
More about sterling silver hamsa pendants
What does a hamsa pendant mean?
The hamsa is a downward- or upward-facing open palm, often shown with a symmetrical thumb on each side. It is worn as a guard against the evil eye and as a wish for good fortune. Some designs set a Star of David or a chai inside the palm, which layers the protective hand with a second symbol — those pieces sit here and also on the Star of David pendants and chai pendants pages where the motif warrants it.
Is this real silver?
Yes. Each is .925 sterling — 92.5% pure silver, alloyed for strength — and stamped. Where a piece carries a rhodium or platinum finish, that is a surface treatment applied over the sterling to slow tarnish; the metal underneath is silver throughout. Browse more in sterling silver charms and sterling silver medals.
How big are they?
Sizes run from compact charms under 20 mm tall to statement pendants approaching 38 mm, with widths from about 11 mm to 23 mm. Weights range from well under a gram to several grams. Each product page lists the exact length, width and weight for that piece.
Does a chain come with it?
No — these are pendants and charms, sold on their own, with a bail sized to fit most standard chains. Pair one with any of our sterling silver chains.
Who wears a hamsa?
These are unisex. The hamsa is worn by men and women alike, and the smaller charms suit children as well. It is a common gift for a new baby, a bat or bar mitzvah, a graduation, or anyone starting something new.
How do I care for sterling silver?
Store it dry and away from air when you are not wearing it. Warm water, mild soap and a soft cloth keep it bright; a silver polishing cloth lifts tarnish from polished surfaces. On antiqued pieces, polish the raised areas only — the darkened recesses are part of the design and scrubbing them removes the contrast.
What else is in this section?
The hamsa sits alongside menorah charms, Mizpah pendants and gold Star of David pendants within Judaica jewelry. See also Judaica in sterling silver, the full Judaica collection, sterling silver crosses, religious jewelry and the wider pendants and charms range.
