Ghau is a small box traditionally used by Tibetan Buddhists as a portable shrine where prayers and sacred relics are kept and used during travels by people. Ghau is traditionally used as an amulet - a ritualistic object believed to provide protection against evil. It is usually worn around neck and hung close to heart. It is also used as an ornament. People carry ones prayers or prayer concerns and is typically prepared and blessed by a Buddhist priest. People also keep an image of Buddha or other deities inside of the ghau. Also is used as a container for herbs, stones or other objects having protective powers. Most of the Ghaus are madeup of silver but also gold, brass and other metals are too used. Ornate patterns are usually engraved on the box as well. Ghaus are often embedded with semi-precious or precious stones and corals. Some ghaus also have a opening to view the deity placed inside or have a cast form of the deity on the surface of the Ghau.