Scapulars are considered a sacramental of the Catholic Church. The brown scapular is worn to show devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
A scapular is worn over the shoulders, with the square with Our Lady and her baby Jesus in the front and the one with St. Simon kneeling before the Madonna and child on your back. It is made of 100% wool and each square is about 1.5" x 2.25". The scapular is in a clear plastic sheath. On the wool square is a piece of white leather with the depictions. This brown scapular has a white cord.
There are two ways to be invested to the scapular. One is in a formal ceremony given by your church. The other is by a priest placing the scapular over your head while you and he recite a marian prayer such as the Hail Mary. Investiture must be done with a wool scapular. To show your devotion to Mother Mary, while wearing it, you should say the rosary daily or the Divine Office liturgy, which can be found on line. Purchase of this item includes instructions on wear and devotions.
Mary has promised to those that wear the scapular and faithfully follow a daily devotion to her, and that live a chaste life according to their station, that "Those who die wearing this scapular shall not suffer eternal fire."
This is a beautiful devotional to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and is meant to bring you closer to Our Mother through daily prayer and meditations. It is not meant to be worn as a necklace of protection.