Devil Hand Sign Its Meaning and History

Jun 13 2025

Tags: devil horn hand sign , devil hand sign , devil hand

It’s one of the most misunderstood symbols in the world — the Devil Horn Hand Sign. Often mischaracterized and controversial, this hand gesture has traveled through centuries of religious lore, superstition, cultural symbolism, and even modern fashion. Known in Italy as the “Mano Cornuto,” or “Horned Hand,” it’s more than a mere rock-and-roll gesture. It's a talisman against evil. A protective charm. A statement of heritage.

At The Italian Jewelry Company, we celebrate the deep-rooted history of Italian superstition and style. That’s why the Devil Horn Hand Sign — particularly when cast in precious metals or carved in red coral — remains one of our most iconic jewelry motifs.

What's the Devil Horn Hand Sign?

The Devil Horn Hand Sign, also called the “Mano Cornuto,” is formed by extending the pinkie and index fingers while folding the middle and ring fingers down, often with the thumb tucked in. In modern culture, you might recognize it as the hand sign used at heavy metal concerts or by rock stars, but its origins go back much further.

In ancient Italian folk tradition, the Devil Horn Hand Sign was used to ward off the Evil Eye, or "Malocchio." Rather than an aggressive or offensive gesture, it was a symbolic way to deflect bad energy, jealousy, or curses cast by others.

In this context, the devil hand sign isn’t about embracing evil — it’s about protecting yourself from it.

Religious and Superstitious Meaning

In southern Italy, especially in Naples and Sicily, belief in the Evil Eye (Malocchio) is taken seriously. The devil hand sign acts as a counter-gesture, like a mirror that reflects harmful intentions away from the victim.

This belief was so entrenched in rural and urban communities that many older Italians still use the sign subtly when passing funerals, hearing bad news, or sensing envy. Some will even place their fingers behind their back in a protective version of the Mano Cornuto.

Gold Horn Italian Charm for Necklace

At The Italian Jewelry Company, the Gold Horn Italian Charm for Necklace is one of our most popular protective amulets. Often worn together with a coral horn or a saint medal, this piece captures the essence of Italian folk protection.

But What Is the Malocchio?

The "Malocchio" is the Evil Eye — a curse transmitted through a malicious gaze. It’s a belief found in many Mediterranean cultures, but in Italy, it is especially potent. According to folklore, if someone looks at you with envy or ill will, even without speaking, they can cause misfortune.

Typical signs of the Evil Eye include:

Sudden headaches
Loss of appetite
Misplacing important items
Financial or relationship troubles

To fight back, Italians turn to charms, amulets, and, of course, the devil horn hand sign.

How Different Cultures Deal with the Evil Eye

Greece: They use blue eye beads to repel the curse.
Turkey: Nazar amulets in cobalt blue are believed to protect.
Italy: Coral horns (Cornicelli), garlic, and the devil horn hand sign are traditional.
Middle East: Recitations of protective prayers are common.

Despite the cultural differences, all these traditions point to a universal truth: people want to feel safe from the unknown. And that’s where symbolism, like the devil hand sign, plays a powerful role.

Trivia: You may not have known that Mano Cornuto ...

… is often used without anyone noticing! Older Italians sometimes keep a small Mano Cornuto charm in their pocket or hang one in their car’s rearview mirror — a subtle shield against negativity.

The Devil Horns Hand Sign in Pop Culture

The rise of the Devil Horn Hand Sign in pop culture is often credited to Ronnie James Dio, a legendary heavy metal singer of Italian-American descent. He adopted the gesture from his Italian grandmother, who would use it to ward off the “malocchio.” Dio’s use of the sign during concerts gave it global recognition, but also layered it with misunderstanding.

What many now view as a rebellious symbol actually comes from old-world superstition, proving that ancient traditions often outlive their original meaning, reshaped by modern narratives.

Hand with Horns Facing Upward vs Downward

Yes, direction matters.

Horns Upward: Traditionally seen as a protective gesture — think of it like a spiritual umbrella shielding you from harm.
Horns Downward: In some occult and pop contexts, this may symbolize Satanic imagery or rebellion. But in Italy, this is not the original meaning.

The Italian Mano Cornuto, used to fight the Evil Eye, is typically made with the horns pointed downward, but in jewelry design, the orientation can vary without losing its intent.

Hand Charm Manocorno in Gold

Our Hand Charm Manocorno in Gold is designed with this protective intent. Its bold structure and elegant finish make it both symbolic and stylish — a nod to Italian roots and fashion flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What does it mean in Italy to make the gesture of the horns to another person?

In Italy, making the devil's hand sign toward another person can be deeply insulting. It can imply that the person is being cheated on — the implication of being a "cuckold" or “cornuto.” So be careful — what’s protective in one context can be offensive in another.

Question 2: What is the hand sign against the devil?

The hand sign against the devil is none other than the Mano Cornuto, the horned hand gesture used in southern Italian folklore to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. Its power is amplified when worn as a charm in gold or coral.

Question 3: So, what does the devil’s hand sign finally mean?

It means protection. It means defense. It is a folkloric weapon against envy, negativity, and curses. The devil horn hand sign is a piece of Italian culture, misunderstood by many, cherished by those who know its story.

The Horned Hand in TV and Film

The devil's hand sign has made countless appearances in television, movies, and music. From horror films to rock concerts to episodes of Italian dramas, this ancient gesture has morphed into a symbol that walks the line between occult, cool, and cultural.

Shows like “The Sopranos” and “Luna Nera” feature subtle nods to this folklore, highlighting the continued presence of superstitions in Italian-American communities and beyond.

Devil Horn Hand Sign in Jewelry

Wearing the devil horn hand sign in the form of jewelry is a beautiful way to stay connected to your roots. It’s also an elegant fashion statement.

From gold and coral pendants to sleek silver charms, The Italian Jewelry Company honors the artistry and symbolism behind each piece.

Traditional Materials for the “Manocorno”

Red Coral: Believed to absorb negative energy
Gold: Considered divine and incorruptible
Silver: Reflects spiritual purity

Each of our devil horn hand sign charms is crafted with traditional materials to preserve authenticity and amplify its protective energy.

The Devil Hand Sign Today

In 2025, the devil horn hand sign has evolved yet again. It’s seen in TikTok's, Instagram posts, streetwear, runway fashion, and even political rallies. But in Italy and among Italian Americans, it still holds its original magic.

Wearing the devil hand sign isn’t about rebellion — it’s about protection, pride, and cultural preservation.

Hand Charm Manocorno in Gold and Coral

This charm is a bestseller in our collection. It features detailed finger placement, a warm coral bead, and 14k gold plating — an elevated nod to Italian heritage and superstition.