Mala beads have been used in Buddhism and Hinduism for centuries and the traditional Rudraksha mala dates back to the 10th century.

Malas are strands of 108 beads plus a “guru” bead traditionally used for meditation and prayer. They comprise a variety of materials; wood, seeds, gemstones and metals. The gemstones are believed to be imbued with powerful energies and sacred meaning. Malas are used for keeping count while reciting, chanting, or mentally repeating a mantra or the name or names of a deity. Malas are typically made with 18, 27, 54 or 108 beads.