The Elekes ceremony

The Elekes ceremony involves a Godparent consecrating the necklaces and giving them Ashé through a series of ritual songs, baths, and sacrifices (Ebo). An Eleke that has not been ritually washed and fed is nothing more than decorative beads. During the ceremony itself, the initiate will be washed and their head will be cleansed (Rogación). The Elekes are then presented and the ceremony is over. At this point, the recipient is considered an (Worshiper of the Orisha).

Elekes should be worn at all times except when sleeping, bathing, drinking alcohol, or having sex. If one of them breaks, it can be a sign that Orisha blocked something harmful from reaching you. You'll need to contact your godparent for a new Eleke and possibly a reading.