A row of deep-blue lapis lazuli beads flecked with golden pyrite – the treasured blue stone of antiquity, in a single strand.
The stone of lapis lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a deep-blue rock made chiefly of lazurite, often dotted with golden pyrite flecks and white calcite. Its historic source is Afghanistan, and in the Renaissance it was the raw material of the precious ultramarine pigment. Tradition regards it as a stone of truth and wisdom, tied to the throat chakra and self-expression. These are traditional ideas.
The 108-bead mala
A mala is the prayer strand of the Hindu and Buddhist traditions, originally used to count mantras during meditation. Beyond the 108 beads, a larger guru bead closes the loop; it stands for wisdom, while the small cylinder above it represents emptiness. The beads pass one by one between the fingers as attention rests on the meaning and vibration of the words. Today many also wear a mala as a wrapped wrist accessory.
How to use it
The deep blue and golden flecks give the strand a ceremonial feel in the hand. Hold the mala during mantra recitation or give it a fixed place in your meditation space.
Material and craft
A 108-bead strand of natural gemstone beads, roughly 31 cm long. Because it is made of natural stone, every piece is unique: shade and veining may vary slightly. The mala comes with a decorative brocade pouch that protects it and makes a fitting gift presentation.
Good to know
Wipe the stone with a soft cloth and lukewarm water; avoid prolonged direct sunlight and harsh chemicals. The meaning attached to it comes from tradition and makes no medical claim.