Lucky Charms of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico's charm tradition blends Taino, Spanish Catholic, and Afro-Puerto Rican Espiritismo (Spiritism) influences. The azabache — black jet carved into fist or hand shapes — is the quintessential Puerto Rican baby amulet, pinned to infant clothing to protect against the evil eye (mal de ojo). These are given at baptisms as standard protective gifts. The mano de azabache is so central to Puerto Rican culture that it is a national symbol.

Espiritismo — the Puerto Rican form of Spiritism mixed with African Lucumí and Santería elements — involves specific objects including candles, statues of saints and protectors, and specific herbal preparations. The rosary, crucifix, and saint medals of Catholic practice are universal. The coquí frog, endemic to Puerto Rico and producing its distinctive call through the tropical night, is considered the supreme luck-symbol of Puerto Rican identity.