Islamic amulet containers

Quick guide: how do amulet cases open?

Published Feb 05, 2024

Amulet cases look straightforward at first glance – until you try to open one. Across North Africa and Southwest Asia, silver containers called hirz were made to hold folded texts or small protective items, and their opening mechanisms can be surprisingly diverse. Some use a slider lid, others a hinged cap, and a few hide the opening in the decoration. In this post, part of my series on amulets in jewellery, I’ll walk you through the most common constructions, what the exterior hardware can tell you, and why – sometimes – the most responsible choice is not to open an amulet case at all.

How amulet cases open

Before you dive in: this article shows the three main types of silver amulet cases and their historic development. It may be useful to scroll through this one again to refresh your memory. So, let’s see how these open!

Amulet case type 1: how to open tubular amulet cases

These invariably open on the side. One of the caps at the end functions as the lid. This is clearly visible with the Yemeni container shown above (click to enlarge the photos).

Often, you may find the opening cap integrated into the chainwork, as shown above with the Egyptian cases, or sporting a suspension loop of its own as in the container from Iran.

This is an extra failsafe in case the container opens: the cap would still be attached to the chain.

Amulet case type 2: how to open slim rectangular, square and triangular amulet cases

These may open in two different ways: using a sliding mechanism on one of the sides or its top, or by removing the cap on either side.

The triangular case from Egypt, shown above, has a sliding lid that opens by pulling the upper suspension loop (the one on top)

Amulet case type 3: how to open larger amulet boxes

These usually have a lid that can be removed, much like a locket. The hinge often doubles as suspension loop.

Closed amulet cases: containers that cannot be opened

Not all amulet containers can be opened. That may be because the cap or lid has been welded shut, and I would advise to leave it that way. We’re not supposed to see what’s inside.

But a much more common reason is that many of the designs were created without an opening in the first place. That is for example the case with the jewellery shown above. All of these carry amulet cases in one form or another, and none of these can be opened. The Tunisian pendant is even designed as a bead in the shape of a cylindrical amulet case: the chain runs right through it.

Their shape associates them with their presumed contents: it’s not so much ‘form follows function’, but rather ‘form takes over function’.

How to spot if and where an amulet container opens

Observe the construction of your amulet container very closely. Look for seams, edges or lines that suggest a point of separation. This can be a thin line around the edges that the other end does not have, or a small gap. If the amulet is firmly closed, this may be nearly impossible to spot.

Sliding mechanisms usually have either small ridges or grooves, or tiny protrusions (and that could be the suspension loop from which the pendant itself hangs). Both serve to facilitate the sliding.

Hinges are usually visible: here as well, look for any seams or gaps that may indicate the lid is openable.

Should you open amulet containers….?

If you decide to inspect your amulet containers for opening mechanisms, I’d advise to do so very carefully. Avoid the use of excessive force to pry them open, as vintage to antique objects damage easily. If the lid is jammed, welded shut or stuck otherwise, leave it be.

I’d also advise to consider the reasons for opening an amulet container. When you’re studying its contents, it may contribute a great deal to our understanding of the culture the wearer comes from. But afterwards, perhaps it would be best to put its contents back inside.

Its contents were not meant to be seen by anyone but the wearer, so from that point of view, it would be a sign of respect not to open them, or at least to keep their contents private. Whatever is inside, it once made someone feel secure and safe – a feeling we can easily honour.

Conclusion: function before ornament

Understanding how an amulet case opens starts with recognising its function. The lid, loops, and cord channels were designed to protect contents that mattered—texts, blessings, and personal safeguards. For collectors and curators, that means reading the object before handling it: identify the mechanism, note weaknesses, and consider the ethical and conservation implications. In many cases, the amulet’s meaning is preserved best by leaving it closed. These are objects of belief first and ornament second, and their construction tells that story clearly.

Frequently Asked Questions about amulet cases

Why do some amulet cases refuse to open?
Many were closed tightly to protect the contents. Old repairs, corrosion, or grit in slider grooves can also jam the mechanism.

What types of openings do amulet cases use?
The most common are slider lids (a sleeve pushed along a track), hinged caps with tiny pins, and end caps that twist or pull.

How can I tell where the opening is?
Look for joins in the metal, a slightly raised track for sliders, or a small pin at one end for hinges. Cord channels are not openings.

Is it safe to open an amulet case?
Often no. Contents can be fragile paper or organic material; forcing a mechanism risks damage. When in doubt, consult a conservator.

What might be inside an amulet case?
Folded or rolled text (prayer, verse, numbers), tiny written charms, or occasionally small inclusions like threads or beads.

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What is inside amulet cases and how were they used? Find out in the e-course on amulets & charms!

More posts on amulets? Browse them all here!

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