Cowrie shells are smooth and shiny and more or less egg-shaped. The round side of the shell is called the dorsal face, whereas the flat under side is called the ventral face, which shows a long, narrow, slit-like opening, which is toothed at the edges. Cowrie shell is of great significance in the worship of goddess mahalaxmi and lord vishnu.

Shells are known to bring good luck and to protect the spirit of the wearer, and many tribes use them in spiritual ceremonies. Cowrie shells symbolize the power of destiny. They are said to be able to transfer magical power and good luck to whoever they are aimed at. The humped, thick shell is beautifully coloured and glossy; the apertural lips, which open into the first whorl in the shell.