Hmong Silver Hand Fabricated Necklace with ‘Soul Lock’ Pendant

Originating from the Hmong Ethnic People, a subgroup of the Miao, who live in parts of China, Vietnam, Northern Thailand, North-eastern Myanmar & Laos.
Period: Mid-20th century
Provenance: California Estate
Weight: Greater than 1000 grams

This necklace is a beautifully ornate artifact from the Hmong culture; it comprises a heavy, solid silver, twisted torque from which multiple silver chains and dangles are suspended. In the center is a geometrically engraved, rectangular pendant with swirls known as a ‘soul lock’, which is worn to keep the soul inside the body during illness or accident, thereby providing the wearer with powerful protection against physical harm.

The Hmong are known for their colorful woven textiles and large ornamental silver jewelry, which is often regarded as a form of portable wealth.

"The Hmong xauv is more than just a piece of silver jewelry—adding to the Hmong’s unique and fascinating culture—the Hmong xauv or necklace has its own history.

"Xauv,” a necklace that means "lock,” dates back centuries. The Hmong were persecuted and enslaved by the Chinese, and forced to wear necklaces for identification. After our independence, the xauv were designed in remembrance of hardships. 

Today, not only is the xauv used to accessorize traditional Hmong clothing, but it also reminds us of our enslavement and freedom—and remains part of our identity as a Hmong people.

Hmong silversmithing is a unique trade. Each piece of the xauv is handcrafted and then clipped together by hand to complete the entire xauv."

"This artifact is such an important item to the Hmong people because it shows where we came from and our history. The xauv is now worn everywhere at every Hmong festival and New Year celebrations! This piece of history shows that, we are strong even when separated."

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