English: In Southern Germany, Alsace and areas of Switzerland, young Jewish boys wore textile neckbands or collars for their brit milah. Coins or coral stones on these neckbands were meant to distract the evil eye away from the boys, thus serving as a form of protection. This practice continued until the early 20th century. These neckbands were also worn by pregnant or birthing women to prevent miscarriage and protect a new-born child.

Object number: JMS 1731

Photographer: Dieter Hofer