Lucky Charms of Cuba

Cuba's most distinctive contribution to world amulet culture is Santería (Lucumí), the syncretic Afro-Cuban religion that equates Yoruba orishas with Catholic saints. The ilekes — sacred necklaces of beads in the specific colors of each orisha (blue-and-white for Yemayá, red-and-black for Elegguá, etc.) — are the primary amulets of Santería initiates. Elegguá, the orisha of crossroads and beginnings, is often represented by a cement head with cowrie eyes placed behind the door.

Cowrie shells are essential divination tools and decorative elements across Afro-Cuban practice. The evil eye (mal de ojo) is guarded against with the standard Caribbean practices. The Cuban cigar (tabaco) plays a role in Santería ceremonies as an offering to specific orishas. Catholic rosary beads and saint medals coexist with Santería objects in most Cuban homes.