Altars
How to Create an Ancestor Altar for Guidance, Protection, and Spiritual Connection
Learn how to build and maintain an ancestor altar for ongoing spiritual practice, protection, and ancestral healing.
The Tiger Cowrie Shell is a spiritually charged item used in Santería, Ifá, and other African Diaspora practices. Recognized for its natural beauty and patterned surface, it symbolizes fertility, wealth, feminine energy, and divine protection. Cowries like the tiger variety are often used in divination (such as dilogún readings), altar decorations, jewelry for Orisha representations, and prosperity rituals. The distinctive markings of the tiger cowrie make it especially revered for enhancing focus, guarding against negative energies, and drawing abundance. Its presence on an altar or in ritual wear reflects connection to ancient spiritual lineages and nature’s sacred balance.