changmingsuo

A chángmìngsuǒ (长命锁) or “longevity lock” is a lock-shaped ornament in China made of metal and hung around a child’s neck to pray for longevity.

Hmong girls often wear large silver locks(chang ming suo) on their chests, which are the main accessories in Miao silver jewelry.

The "chang ming suo" was very popular in Han Chinese regions during the chinese Ming and Qing dynasties. It was believed that by putting this ornament on a child after birth, it could protect them from disasters and evil spirits, ensuring their peace and longevity

Examples

Various changmingsuo.