The purpose of an amulet varied according to its color, shape, and material. The most common material from which amulets were made was faience, a self-glazing type of ceramic made from crushed quartz that could be mass-produced using molds. Since most amulets were meant to be worn, they were designed with a loop for suspension by a chain or cord. Some examples, such as this one, seem to be too large or awkward for actual wear, and were probably presented as small votive offerings.