Tiger Cowrie Shell

What’s Included

1 Tiger Cowrie shell (Size≈2-3 in.)

Sourced from Red Sea

Curator’s Note

Sustainably sourced handpicked shells.

The Tiger cowrie shell (Cypraea tigris) is a large, smooth, and glossy marine snail shell found in the Indo-Pacific. It’s oval-shaped with a pale base and dark brown or black spots, resembling a tiger’s pattern. The living snail is nocturnal, feeds on algae and sponges, and keeps its shell polished with its mantle. Tiger cowries are prized for collecting, jewelry, and cultural uses.

Cultural Note

In Yoruba cosmology each òrìṣà governs specific aspects of nature and human life. In the Lucumí tradition this shell is often associated with the òrìṣà Òṣun. Òṣun is associated with rivers and is a protector of women and children, and governs beauty, love, and wealth.