Fashion has always been a powerful form of storytelling, and on a historic day in American history, with Trump becoming the 47th President, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s accessories spoke volumes. Her choice to wear a necklace and earrings adorned with cowrie shells wasn’t just a style statement—it was a deliberate homage to culture, heritage and resilience.
For those unfamiliar, cowrie shells come from sea snails in the family Cypraeidae. Known for their smooth, glossy surface and distinctive shape, these shells have carried deep meaning for centuries. In ancient Africa, cowrie shells were used as currency, symbolizing prosperity, wealth and beauty. They were often woven into clothing and jewelry as markers of status and reverence. Beyond their material value, cowrie shells hold spiritual significance, representing protection, femininity and fertility—a powerful emblem for a Black woman in a space historically dominated by white men.
The layers of meaning behind Justice Jackson’s accessories run deep. The concept of protection takes on profound importance for the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court. In her position, she must often stand firm against scrutiny and opposition, making her choice to wear cowrie shells a subtle but potent affirmation of her connection to ancestry. It’s a reminder that she carries the strength, wisdom, and resilience of generations before her. On a day that marked a pivotal moment in American history, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s accessories were more than adornments—they were a statement of identity, armor and legacy.
This cultural significance has long inspired Black fashion designers like Lafalaise Dion, known as the “Queen of Cowries,” Wales Bonner, Kílèntár and Melissa Simon-Hartman. These designers have reimagined cowrie shells in modern, creative ways, honoring their heritage while elevating the symbol to global recognition. Their designs have even graced icons like Beyoncé, showcasing the enduring power of cowrie shells to tell stories of strength, beauty, and cultural pride.
