The Mano (meaning 'hand') Figa (meaning 'fig' - a slang term for female genitalia) is a well-known talisman dating back nearly 8,000 years. It's depicted by a clenched fist, with the thumb protruding between the index and middle finger. Known around the world with a variety of meanings, antique figa jewelry is especially common in Italy and Brazil, and vintage figa amulets are now very popular among collectors! It's meaning has evolved over the ages from something offensive to now being a good luck symbol. The gesture is supposed to be so 'obscene' that is scares away evil.  Ha! Whether you believe it is an obscene gesture or a talisman that protects from evil, it still is relevant today. This puffed rose gold Figa wears a carved floral bracelet and would look great layered in with other charms. It has a visible seam from assembly and light dents. It shows wear consistent with age.

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In celebration of the 10th anniversary of Ariel Gordon Jewelry, we’re so proud to introduce Heritage by Ariel Gordon, a collection of vintage and estate jewelry curated by Ariel to bring new life to these treasured pieces.

“It felt inspiring and motivating to me to stop for a moment and reflect on all the different reasons that people have worn jewelry throughout the years - the heritage of the industry that I'm a part of.  I get a lot of satisfaction thinking about the sustainable life cycle of jewelry and that I'm bringing new life to old pieces. I design my own collection to live forever and be heirlooms so it's so exciting that I'm getting to honor these pieces in the same way.  It's a fantasy of mine that 100 years from now, someone will discover one of my pieces, and it would have the same special meaning to them—with the stories and memories it's collected over the years.”

To curate this assortment, Ariel scoured trade shows, flea markets, private collections, and beyond to find authentic, one of a kind jewelry. Every piece in the collection was purchased by Gordon in person so she could fully vet the quality and authenticity. 

• Era: vintage
• Hallmark: not visible
• Metal: 14k rose gold
• Measurements: 1"
• Condition: Good (item shows moderate wear).

Please note this charm is sold without a chain. If you'd like it on one of our chains, please select one in the drop down and we will assemble it for you. If you'd like to see full length shots of the various chain styles, head over here.

If you'd like to layer it on your own necklace at home, that may or may not require a jeweler to solder it (it all depends on the size of the bail + the clasp on your personal chain). In an effort to streamline things and save everyone time and money on shipping, if you need it professionally assembled on your personal jewelry, we politely decline that service and recommend taking it to a local jeweler. We're happy to give our input on how they should assemble if needed.

The entirety of the Heritage by Ariel Gordon Collection has been inspected by a 3rd generation, GIA-certified Estate Jewelry dealer so we feel confident about the pieces that we are passing on to you. Every piece here has survived generations and we are so excited that they are finding a new home with you. Please keep in mind that these heirlooms are sold as-is and will show wear consistent with their age. We believe that this wear isn't a defect, rather it's proof that the piece was worn with love in generations past. We will describe any notable wear or damage as accurately as possible and to the best of our ability. We are only selling pieces that we've determined are in wearable condition. That being said, please know that jewelry in general is fragile, especially antique jewelry and should be handled with extra care. We will assess all repair requests on Heritage pieces on a case by case basis. 

We know that shopping online for estate pieces can be intimidating, which is why we will accept returns on our Heritage pieces (with limited terms).  Due to the one-of-a kind nature of these pieces, you can return it within 5 days of receipt of the item with a $25 restocking fee.

If you're unsure about anything, please reach out to us via our concierge portal with any specific questions about this item.