The snake-entwined head of Medusa (the misunderstood Greek deity whose crime was thinking herself lovelier than Athena) is iconic in the world fashion thanks to Gianni Versace. When asked about his choice to use this universally-hated symbol as inspiration for the Versace logo in a 1996 interview, Gianni explained that Medusa represented seduction -- a dangerous attraction. His lifelong fascination with classical art fused with a chance childhood run-in with the mythological deity ultimately inspired a beautiful representation of Medusa in his logo – a far cry from the monster most of us know her to be.

Medusa Sunglasses by Versace

But Gianni was onto something. Medusa, once a priestess in Athena's temple, was originally a beautiful maiden. It wasn’t until she made love to Poseidon in Athena's temple that the enraged goddess transformed Medusa’s beautiful hair to serpents and made her face so horrific, the mere sight of it would turn a man to stone. Interestingly, in the book Female Rage: Unlocking Its Secrets, Claiming Its Power, the authors noted that “When we asked women what female rage looks like to them, it was always Medusa, the snaky-haired monster of myth, who came to mind ... In one interview after another we were told that Medusa is 'the most horrific woman in the world' ... [though] none of the women we interviewed could remember the details of the myth.”

14K Gold & Garnet Medusa Necklace by Bittersweet NY

Medusa Jewelry by Borgioni

Hand-Tooled Medusa Handbag by Leather Fantasy

Carved Red Medusa Ring by Tagliamonte
Silver Medusa Necklace by Saucier Jewelry
Pearl & Gemstone Medusa Ring by Elyssa Bass Designs

Limited Edition Medusa Tee by Tokidoki

Sleeping Medusa Ring by Matina Amanita

Medusa Sunglasses by Ed Hardy