Quick answer: A red chili pepper charm comes from southern Italian folk tradition, where it is a cousin of the cornicello horn and a sign to turn away the evil eye. Today it is also worn just for fun.
It is small. It is red. And it has a big story. The chili pepper charm is a favorite in southern Italy. You see it hanging in shops, on keys and on necklaces. So what does a chili pepper charm mean? Here is the tradition behind our Pepe Charm.
What Is a Cornicello?
Cornicello means "little horn" in Italian. It is a curved red horn, often made of red coral, silver or gold. In Italian tradition, it is worn against the evil eye, called the malocchio. That is a jealous or envious look.
Is the Chili Pepper the Same as the Cornicello?
They are cousins. The red chili and the red horn have a similar curved shape and the same bold red color. In southern Italy you often see them side by side. Both are part of the same folk tradition.
A little red charm with a lot of history.
What Does a Red Chili Pepper Charm Mean?
In southern Italian tradition, the chili is a sign to turn away the evil eye. It is also just plain fun. It brings a wink of summer and a bit of spice to whatever you wear. That mix of old meaning and playful style is why people love it.
Meet Pepe, Our Red Chili Pepper Charm
The Pepe Charm is a little red chili dipped in gold. It is $95. It does not take itself too seriously.
How Do You Wear a Chili Pepper Charm?
Clip it to a bag, a phone charm, a pouch or a chain. It looks great on the zip of a Pampelonne Denim Pouch. Pair it with a Hamsa charm for a little collection of symbols. Read the Hamsa necklace meaning.
Is a Chili Pepper Charm a Good Gift?
Yes. It is under $100 and fun to give, especially to someone who loves Italy or cooking. See our stocking stuffers under $100.
Why Is the Chili Pepper Red?
Red is a strong color in Italian folk tradition. The cornicello is often carved from red coral. A red chili has that same bright, bold look. Today the red chili charm is also just a happy symbol of Italian summer, good food and family. That is the spirit Pepe brings to your bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does cornicello mean?
It means little horn in Italian. It is worn in Italy against the evil eye.
Where does the chili pepper charm come from?
It is part of southern Italian folk tradition.
How much is the Pepe Charm?
The Pepe Charm is $95.
Can I put Pepe on a necklace?
Yes. Add it to a chain, a bag, a pouch or a phone charm.
Shop all charms and bag charms.
What does a chili pepper charm mean in Italy?
In southern Italy, the red chili is part of the same folk tradition as the cornicello and is a sign to turn away the malocchio, or evil eye.
