Silver locks became popular during the 19th century in China. People believed that evil ghosts were lurking all around with the intention to snatch them or their children away. To prevent the demons from doing harm, all sorts of talismans and amulets were used. The most popular amulet was a silver padlock which would hang from a necklace. The padlock was supposed to ‘chain the person to the earth’ thereby preventing abduction by evil spirits. In her interesting book ‘Four centuries of silver’, author Margaret Duda explains more about this old custom.