In Santeria, the use of colored beads is rich with symbolism and is often tied to specific Orishas or spirits. Yellow and green beads in particular are associated with the Orisha Oshun, who is revered as the goddess of love, fertility, and rivers. Her colors are traditionally yellow and gold, but the vibrant greens often represent the abundance and fertility associated with her domain.
The yellow beads symbolize the warmth and joyful aspects of Oshun, embodying her nurturing and loving nature. They are often used in rituals and prayers to attract positive energy, happiness, and prosperity. On the other hand, the green beads reflect growth, renewal, and prosperity, highlighting the abundance that Oshun brings into one’s life.
When practitioners wear or use these beads, they are not just decorative; they serve as a spiritual tool that connects them to the energies and blessings of Oshun. This combination of colors encourages a harmonious balance between joy, fertility, and prosperity, emphasizing the abundance present in one’s life when aligned with these powerful energies.