The Perfect Way to String Semi-Precious Stones.

Mala beads were traditionally used for Buddhist prayer recitals and consist of 108 individually knotted beads. Mathematicians during the Vedic understood the number 108 to hold cosmological significance. Religious mystics believed it to represent spiritual completion and was, therefore, a sacred number.

Garlands strung with 108 beads were used as a counting tool when repeating mantra during meditation, and many traditional prayer necklaces feature larger beads at significant marker points, to indicate a halfway.

In recent times, the mala has been adopted by health and wellbeing communities, yogis and fashionistas. Although the spiritual significance of this ancient design might have got lost along the way, that doesn’t mean its aesthetic beauty is any less celebrated.

Mala style necklaces work with an endless combination of materials, shapes, colours and sizes. The knotting technique applied before each additional bead is also a valuable skill for any budding jewellery designer to master. It adds stability and fluidity that is seldom found with wire strung necklaces. Using threads such as Superlon Cord, Griffin Silk or Chinese knotting cord gives jewellery a further tactile and playful quality. We have found that stringing your necklace with the traditional number of beads, makes it the perfect size for a wraparound bracelet, giving the wearer optional uses depending on their mood.

To showcase the versatility of this necklace style, our featured image combines 6mm wooden beads with a beautiful green turquoise semi-precious stone. We have combined handmade Tibetan style brass and vibrant red cinnabar with gold plated findings and a large tassel focal point.

To make your own, we recommend using BeadSmith fine point bent tweezers and Griffin silk cord. String with semi-precious stones that reflect your personal tastes, a mood or intention.