Carnelian Tassel Mala

For a quiet minute before a hard conversation. Polished red carnelian beads, knotted one by one, with a Buddha-head bead and a burgundy tassel.

Slow down, one bead at a time.

In Buddhist practice a mala counts mantras, one bead per recitation, and a traditional mala has 108 beads. These beads are carnelian, which crystal lore ties to courage. A silver-tone Buddha-head bead and a long burgundy tassel finish the strand.

The story

Buddhist prayer beads, called nenju or juzu in Japan, have long been used to count repeated chants. Museum records describe 108 as a customary full count, turning repetition into a pattern that can be followed one bead at a time.

Using it

Hold it before a talk you've been putting off. Move one bead with each slow breath, or with a short phrase of your own, like May I listen well. The rest of the time, wear it as a long necklace.

Details

• Materials: Carnelian, silver-tone metal and cord
• Five elements: Fire · Find your element
• Size: 8 mm beads
• One knotted bead strand with its Buddha-head bead and tassel.

Each stone varies a little in color and pattern.