Cowrie shells, or caracoles, are part of almost every Lucumí house. These cowries come with the back already opened, ready to use, and range from about 0.3 to 1.5 inches long. They're sold by the pound.
What are open cowrie shells used for?
In Lucumí practice the cowrie is one of the most sacred natural objects. It's the voice of the Orishas in the diloggún, and it's used to dress and decorate their spaces. Having the back opened saves you the time and care of cutting them yourself.
How do people use them?
- Dressing Orishas: to decorate Elegguá, soperas and other religious pieces.
- Elekes and beadwork: added to necklaces, bracelets and mazos.
- Religious crafts: for any work where cowries are needed in quantity.
The diloggún itself is prepared and consecrated by your godparent; these shells are the raw material.
Why buy them from El Viejo Lázaro?
We've supplied Miami's religious community since 2003, and buying by the pound is the easy way to get enough for a big project. If you need a single shell for Oyá, try our tiger cowrie.
Frequently asked questions
What does open back mean?
The rounded back of each shell has already been opened, which is how cowries are usually prepared for religious use.
What size are the shells?
They range from about 0.3 to 1.5 inches long.
How are they sold?
By the pound.
Can I use these for a diloggún?
Your godparent prepares and consecrates the diloggún. Many people buy cowries to bring to them.
You may also like
More from Viejo Lazaro
Recently viewed