On his wedding day a groom carried a piece of iron in his pocket, which was supposed to "ward off the evil eye" for fear that envy, and jealous feelings might destroy his happiness. Tearing a bride's wedding veil was believed to be a sign of good luck. At the conclusion of many Italian weddings the newlyweds shattered a wine glass or vase. Afterwards the broken pieces were counted. This represented the anticipated number of years the couple was expected to be happily married.