Tyo तायो

This is a large golden amulet that is filled with historical and cultural meanings. It is believed that the pointed shape in the pendant is a symbol of the Kathmandu Valley. Along with this, in the amulet, the facets of the pendant symbolizes the directions of the valley. On top of this, you can also see the multi-headed snake, which is a direct reference to the origin myth of the Kathmandu Valley. 

If you look closer, you may notice that it’s center – the one under the hood of the snake, is vaguely similar to the shape of a stupa. Well, this is an intentional design meant as a reference to Swayambhu Stupa, which is also directly linked with the origin myth of the Newars and Kathmandu Valley.