cowry

Cowries are also considered symbols of fertility, birth and wealth and an important in African tribal art. Used for centuries by Africans as currency (shell money), early colonialists imported huge numbers for use in the slave trade. As a medium of exchange, they were a symbol of wealth and prosperity and were controlled by the powerful. Resembling the shape of female organs, they have also been long used on African altars with prayers for births, fertility and sexuality and represent protection by goddesses.