E. A. Wallis Budge 
Amulets and Superstitions 

From the evil eye to the crucifix, this treatment presents a thorough and fascinating exploration of amulets and talismans of many cultures and traditions. The British Museum's noted Egyptologist examines the origins of seals, stones, rings, and other items related to Arab, Persian, Babylonian, Assyrian, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Gnostic, Hebrew, and other sources.