Closed Cowrie Snail

In Santería, closed cowrie shells (usually cowrie shells with the natural opening or uncut) are primarily used as spiritual protection amulets to attract prosperity, abundance, and energetic harmony. They are also essential elements in offerings, cleansing rituals, the making of necklaces, and representing the connection with the energies of the sea.

• Protection and Amulets: They are used to create personal amulets, bracelets, or necklaces (elekes) intended to protect against negativity and envy.
• Attracting Abundance: Due to their historical association with currency in various African cultures, closed cowrie shells are used in rituals to attract money, luck, and prosperity.
• Offerings and Consecration: They are placed inside the bowls of the Orishas (such as Olokun or Yemayá) or in offerings (addimú) to harmonize energies.
• Cleansing Rituals: They are used in baths and rituals to remove negative energies and attract positive vibrations