| The cowrie shell has many uses and meanings. It | | | | unique design of the cowrie shell is one main |
| has shown up in the form of money, jewelry, and | | | | reason why this shell has maintained so much |
| even religious accessories in almost every part of | | | | popularity throughout history. |
| the world. | | | | Spiritually, according to African legend if you are |
| Found in the islands of the Indian Ocean, the | | | | attracted to cowrie shells you could be family to |
| cowrie shell soon gained popularity throughout | | | | an ocean spirit of wealth and earth. It also |
| much of ancient Africa. Its influence, however, | | | | represents Goddess protection which is very |
| also spread to China, where it was used as a | | | | powerful and connected with the strength of the |
| form of currency to such an extent that the | | | | ocean. Throughout Africa, and South and North |
| Chinese used its shape to form their pictograph | | | | America, the cowrie symbolized the power of |
| for money. Today excavations have found some | | | | destiny and prosperity. Thought of as the mouth |
| of the money of ancient China in the form of | | | | of Orsisas, it also is believed to have taught |
| brass and silver cowrie shells. Wherever the | | | | stories of humility and respect. |
| cowrie shells were found, it seems as if they | | | | However you interpret these tiny white shells |
| were thought of as wealth. | | | | they are a fascinating, unique addition to your |
| The back side of a cowrie shell resembles a | | | | wardrobe. Whether in jewelry, or in crafts, or in |
| female sexual organ. The front side is shaped like | | | | any other use you can imagine these shells are |
| the abdomen of a pregnant woman. The meaning | | | | sure to add an exotic feel of Africa and make an |
| is not erotic, but represents a miricle of life. This | | | | excellent, one of a kind, fashion statement. |