Indian Necklace with Lingam Holder

A silver capsule on a woven chain, built to hold something sacred.

This silver necklace with lingam holder was made in India in the 20th century. Lingam holders, often worn on a chain, are commonly associated with Shaiva devotion, especially the Lingayat tradition, in which a small lingam is carried on the body. The central case is a smooth, polished silver sphere flanked by two faceted, pointed cones tipped with small rings. A fine mesh chain, woven like rope, carries it. The metal is bright, with light scratches.

The chain runs about twenty-eight inches. A pendant with a purpose.