Tibetan Rosewood Mala Prayer Beads 31 Inch
Description
Situated atop a Himalayan plateau at 16,000 feet, Tibet, often overshadowed by its larger neighbors India and China, has a rich cultural heritage and a global reputation for remarkable jewelry. Historically, artisans in Tibet combined imported materials like red coral, pearls, and conch shells with native green turquoise, agates, and precious metals to create intricately worked jewelry for both decorative and religious purposes. Commissioned by wealthy patrons, Tibetan silversmiths crafted pieces with great detail, receiving accommodations and sustenance during the creative process. Today, while some traditional handmade methods have shifted to semi-automated processes, and modern materials like plastics coexist with traditional ones, Tibet continues to produce breathtaking jewelry. The commitment to Free Tibet is evident in the sourcing of these exquisite pieces from a Tibetan family in the U.S., employing family members, and supporting over 90 Tibetan refugees in Nepal. The woman-owned company, emphasizing social responsibility, offers a range of products, from beads to jewelry, reflecting Tibetan artistry and contributing to the livelihoods of people across multiple countries.
In Buddhist tradition, prayer beads known as "malas" play a significant role in meditation, aimed at dispelling evil and achieving inner peace. These beads are often worn around the left wrist or neck, and during meditation, the practitioner repeats a specific mantra while counting the beads. Tassels at the end of each strand typically include extra beads for tracking tens and hundreds of recitations. A true mala comprises precisely 108 beads, a number considered auspicious as it is a multiple of 9 and 12, symbolizing the 9 planets and the 12 houses of the zodiac.
Photo is an example. Yours will be similar. You are purchasing one
Strand Length
31 inches (including string/raffia). 3 inch pendant.
Bead Size
8 mm diameter. See picture with penny for size comparison.
120484
Approximate Age: Contemporary
People: Tibetan
Country of Origin: Tibet, Nepal