The Italian horn is a lucky amulet in the shape of a chilli pepper and is worn throughout Italy.

Often called a cornicello or corno the Italian horn is a superstition that goes back many centuries.

RELATED: What is a cornicello?

In Italy you will often see the traditional red Italian horns hanging in peoples houses, businesses and in the streets.

In Naples and in Southern Italy you see carved coral horns and twirled pendants. The most popular pendants are in gold and can be seen dangling on chains, bracelets and earrings. 

 A coral Italian horn pendant

Superstition and The Malocchio

The Italians have many superstitions and one of those is the belief that the Italian horn will protect them against the evil eye or the malocchio.

RELATED: What is the malocchio?

The malocchio which is the evil eye in Italy can manifest itself in many ways on a person. It can be envy (the green eye), jealousy, negative energy or just wishing ill on someone. 

The Italians believe the bulls horn or Italian horn will protect them and their loved ones. 

Although the malocchio is seen as something sinister, the Italian horn is a symbol of positivity and good luck. Baby pins and bracelets are often adorned with small corni and other charms for good luck and protection. 

The History of The Italian Horn

The Italian horn can be traced back to ancient times to the Romans when a phallic symbol was often seen as good luck.It is often mistake as a chilli pepper with its traditional red body and later evolved to be a bulls horn associated with power and conquering.  

The Italian Horn Now

The Italian horn is now not only a superstitious amulet but a fashion statement. Wearable art that seems to say a lot about you. You will see young girls and often men wearing the lucky charm in many different colors and styles. 

There are traditional solid gold horns that are ostentatious, pretentious, twirled, pointy, coral, red, pink, diamonds, crystals, coral, the list goes on and on. All Italian in their own way. 

In Italy the cornicello has inspired many homewares, hanging charms, bonbonniere and one-of-a-kind gifts. You see them in cars, on key rings and even above doors for good luck.

Jewelry seems to be the most popular way to wear the horn. A keepsake to pass down or a gift of luck and protection. 

Behind the superstition, the Italian's are proud of their famous horn and embrace its uniqueness. Only a country in the shape of a boot could have a horn as a symbol of good luck. Such are the Italians!