A mala necklace of 108 polished natural jade beads, finished with a tassel in a matching colour. The beads are deep green, and the necklace weighs about 54 g. Made in India.
Deep green, with small differences
No two beads are quite the same green. Some are darker, some lighter, and a few show faint markings. That is why your necklace will look a little different from the photo.
The name jade covers two minerals, nephrite and jadeite. Both are tough stones that are hard to break.
Jade feels cool when you first pick it up, then soon takes on the warmth of your hand. Many people enjoy turning the beads between their fingers for that reason.
Jade's place of honour in China
In China, jade has been the most prized stone for thousands of years. In the Book of Rites, Confucius explains that the noble men of old compared virtue to jade. It is still a common gift there, given as a good wish.
Counting on the beads
In Hindu and Buddhist tradition, a mala is used to count mantra repetitions, one bead per repetition. A full round is 108, and the tassel marks where it starts and ends. You can also repeat a short prayer or a phrase of your own.
Many people say one round at the same time every day, in the morning or before bed, and keep the mala by the pillow or in a small bowl.
Wearing and cleaning
Wear it around your neck or wrapped several times around your wrist. A soft, slightly damp cloth is all you need to clean it. Keep the tassel dry, and take the necklace off before swimming or showering.