Cowrie shells mean many things, from snail homes to fertility and money.

 

Currency

 

The use of cowrie shells as currency dates back to the Chinese Shiang dynasty (2000 BC) through the Zhou dynasty. Natural shells could not be counterfeited, and the sources for cowrie shells were so far from China that only kings could afford to import them. The Chinese character for a cowrie shell is "bei," now a part of almost 400 Chinese characters representing value. Cowrie shells saw great use in Africa as currency, especially in the slave trade. Among the Kuba people of Central Africa, cowrie shells were used as currency until the early 20th century. Cowrie shells were the most popular currency within Africa. Pictures of cowrie shells adorned cave walls. The Egyptians considered them to be magical agents and also used them as currency in foreign exchange transactions. Archaeologists have excavated millions of them in the tombs of the Pharaohs.

 

Fertility

 

The cowrie shell is a female symbol. Cowrie shells figure prominently in many West African cultures as a sign of fertility. Waistbands of stringed cowrie shells are worn around the hips in the belief this increases fertility. Women in Roman Pompeii wore cowrie shells to prevent sterility. In Japan, a name for the cowrie shell translates to "the easy delivery shell." Some Japanese women hold cowrie shells while giving birth to aid in a successful delivery.

 

Wealth

 

With cowrie shells used as money, it follows that cowrie shells have been used as symbols of wealth. To assure the dead had currency in the afterlife, excavated remains of early Chinese emperors have been found with cowrie shells in their mouths. Prior to burial, court officers also had cowrie shells placed in their mouths, although less than an emperor. Rows of shells are attached to many African masks, symbolizing great wealth. Garments covered with cowrie shells indicated royalty in certain areas.

 

Symbolic Eyes

 

The shell's resemblance to a half-closed eye led to its use as an artificial eye in mummies. Cowrie shells have also been found decorating bows of boats in the Pacific Ocean and Persian Gulf, Probably for the dual purpose of representing eyes and conferring vitality upon the vessel.

 

Potential

 

 

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In the 21st century, cowrie shells are often viewed as signs of good luck or prosperity. These symbolic meanings continue the cowrie's almost 4,000-year-old association with money and wealth. Necklaces, bracelets, belts, and other wearing apparel are adorned with cowrie shells. Artworks in general and African crafts in particular make generous use of these one-time snail residences.