In March it is customary for everyone to buy braided bracelets. These bracelets are called ‘Martis’. The word ‘Martis’ is March, in greek. They are made of red and white string and are tied onto the wrists. Folk superstition has that people wear these bracelets so that the sun of early spring does not burn their cheeks. The color of these bracelets is red and white, symbolising rosy cheeks and a white complexion.

More specific, red is the color of vitality, health and love, victory, life and courage, the light of a rising or setting sun and the white color is a sign of beauty, purity, innocence and joy.

Left to right:

1. Gold Martis with Eye

2. Heart

3. Fish

4. Pearl Bow

5. Silver Martis with Eye