Hand amulets have been popular in many cultures from Old Egypt, India, Persia to Babylon and Europe, up to early medieval times. In Babylon, with its advanced astrology, the right hand is associated with Venus (the goddess of love). In the East, this right hand represents Buddha's hand. It refers to hands as energy centers and to their healing powers which is expressed with the stone set in the palm. Hand amulets are worn for protection and blessing.