Indian Necklace with Prayer Box

A silver amulet box in a bold, chevron-like shape, hung from a heavy chain.

Rajasthan, India, is the origin of this silver necklace with a prayer box, dated to the mid 19th century. Amulet boxes are commonly worn in India as protective or devotional pendants and may hold a small prayer or charm. The pendant is a curved, tapered bar with ball-tipped ends, and above it rises a half-round panel set with small turrets and fine granulated beads. It hangs from a thick chain of round, linked loops. The silver is soft and grey with an old, lived-in glow.

About 14 inches long. Substantial, ceremonial, and a good conversation starter.