For auction is an antique Chinese tribal minority, probably Miao (maybe Hmong) spirit lock.  A spirit lock is an amulet or pendant which is usually hung around the neck of a new born.  It is supposed to ward off evil, and insure luck.  This spirit lock is hollow, double repousse, welded together with Chinese script (I can not translate).  The metal spirit lock is 4 cm x 3 cm  It has a heavy patina.  I believe the purple cord necklace is a recent addition. Purchased in China in the early1990s. Think Xmas!!!