Oya beads (collar)

In the Lucumí religion, Oya beads are used in necklaces and bracelets to honor Oya, the powerful Orisha of winds, storms, and transformation. Oya's beads are typically a combination of dark colors, often brown, burgundy, or purple, sometimes accented with white or other vibrant shades, symbolizing her fierce and dynamic nature. Wearing Oya beads signifies a connection to her energy, invoking strength, change, and the courage to face life’s challenges. Devotees wear or carry these beads to seek Oya’s blessings for protection, resilience, and the ability to navigate and embrace transformation. The beads represent Oya’s transformative power and her role as a guardian of the gates of the cemetery, embodying her fierce and protective spirit.