Walking along State Street in Santa Barbara, a Turkish store beckoned with colorful items and tasty treats. An array of evil eye items caught my eye at Seven Hill Turkish Imports—no evil spirits dare be there! It’s ironic that the evil eye talisman has the same name as what it is guarding against. The symbol goes back thousands of years and across many cultures and faiths including Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish and Muslim religions. From jewelry to ornaments and decorative items, the evil eye is a symbol of protection you can wear or have in your home or car. With items available in every price range, anyone can afford to wear an evil eye and ward off negative energy. Some traditionalists say you shouldn’t buy an evil eye for yourself, it should be a gift or inherited. When you’re shopping by yourself, buy two and let the friend you gift with the evil eye give the extra one back to you.