This is a longer, larger version of a triple amulet (3 large flat pendants) - known generically in Africa as a gri gri. It is also commonly called a good luck charm or amulet. As such it is worn, by Tuareg men, for protection, as well as personal adornment. The leather is made from goatskin and each element carries something of medicinal or spiritual significance to the owner, often a koranic verse which would defend the wearer from whatever he may consider to be threatening to himm. This would typically not be at the discretion of the owner/wearer, rather it would have been prescribed by a tribal soothsayer/medicine man, in response to concerns the owner would have asked the shaman to address.

 The necklace circumference is 24" (61 cm). The two lateral elements measure about 4 5/8 x 2 1/8 x 1/4". The central element measures 3 5/8 x 2 3/8"