Starting over three thousand years ago, cowry shells, or copies of the shells, were used as Chinese currency. They were also used as means of exchange in India. ...Cowry shells are also worn as jewelry or otherwise used as ornaments or charms. They are viewed as symbols of womanhood, fertility, birth and wealth.
 
The cowrie shell has many uses and meanings. ... Spiritually, according to African legend, if you are attracted to cowrie shells you could be family to an Ocean Spirit of wealth and earth. It also represents Goddess protection which is very powerful and connected with the strength of the ocean.
 
In Buddhism the conch shell's call is meant to awaken one from ignorance, and is a sign of victory over suffering. In Chinese Buddhism, the conch shell signifies a prosperous journey, and in Islam it represents hearing the divine world. The spiral formation inside the conch is symbolic of infinity.