PEN-SHIV-62 Origin: Thailand Grade: A Dimensions: Approximately 20mm with the bail Weight: Approximately 5g Origin: Thailand Grade: A = good 925 silver pendant composed of a 15mm heart-shaped Eye of St. Lucia operculum It is the operculum of a shell that can be collected on certain beaches after a big storm. The size of the opercula can vary from 2 mm to 3 cm. The legend of St. Lucia was born in the 4th century: a young noble girl from Syracuse who obtained the miraculous healing of her mother suffering from an incurable disease through repeated prayers to the Virgin Mary. Devoting an unlimited cult and devotion to the latter, she tore out her eyes and threw them into the sea to not be diverted from her faith and to ward off her suitors. Entirely devoted to prayer, she performed many miracles. In response to this devotion, the Holy Virgin restored her sight and gave her more beautiful and brighter eyes ("Occhji belli e lucentti"). The operculum of the shell named the "Rough Turbo" found on Mediterranean shores symbolizes the eyes of St. Lucia. Wearing one is said to ward off the evil eye and bring good luck. It should be noted that variations of this symbolism are found throughout the Mediterranean basin and beyond (notably in Indonesia). In Corsica, the "eye of St. Lucia" is considered a good luck charm.