Witch balls were popular in homes during the 18th century. Looking similar to Christmas tree ornaments, these glass globes would hang in windows to ward off evil.
The beautifully colored ornaments supposedly attracted negative spirits, and then kept them contained within the walls of the sphere. The owner could then use a damp cloth and wipe away the evil spirits. Witch balls were often filled with herbs believed to bring good fortune and keep witchcraft out of Christian homes. Things like nutmeg, cloves, garlic and whatever was thought to bring good luck and protection were placed inside the ball.
In hindsight, it appeared as if the people using the ornaments to stop evil spells being cast upon their home were in fact, casting their own spells. Traditionally, witch balls were glass and usually green or blue. They are being reproduced for decorative reasons in all colors of the rainbow.
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One reason these balls look so much like Christmas tree ornaments is most likely because they are related. Ornaments similar to witch balls were placed on trees hundreds of years ago to dispel envy someone might feel towards the gifts beneath. Witch balls may not be used to repel witches in today’s world. However, these beautiful globes are sought by collectors to grace their windows, gardens and bring beautiful colors into their home.
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