Design

The design is called Naamsskii. The amulet's symbolic meaning is "has a nothing face" or naamsskii. Sspopii (turtles) are made for females, and naamsskii (males) are made for males. The leather has the coils of the tail beaded onto it, if you look closely. Since each child had unique colors and designs, it became simpler to recognize them from a distance as they grew older. An interesting fact regarding the Piikstaan is that it contained the infant’s dried umbilical cord. It was secured within a special pouch that was held within the amulet. This symbolized the spiritual protection upon children and would continue to serve the child later in their life. The amulet would bring good fortune and protect from any harm.