Lucky Charms of Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic's charm tradition combines its Taino Indigenous heritage, Spanish Catholic practice, and Afro-Dominican religious tradition. Vudú dominicano (Dominican Voodoo, also called 21 Divisiones) is a living syncretic religion that equates African orishas with Catholic saints and Dominican folk spirits. The protective actions of specific spirits (luases) are sought through rituals involving colored objects, offerings, and specific foods.

The evil eye (mal de ojo) is universally feared and guarded against with jet (azabache) beads pinned to infants and specific prayers. The Dominican Republic has a particularly strong devotion to the Virgen de las Mercedes (patron of the country) and the Virgin of Altagracia whose medals are carried for protection. The Amber from the Dominican Republic's northern coast — including some of the world's finest fossil amber — is made into protective jewelry.