Tibetan Bracelet with Copper Beads, Adjustable

Small copper beads, irregular in shape and slightly twisted, sit side by side on a braided cord. The cord ends in two tassels, each with one more bead. The bracelet is strung by hand in Nepal. To read more about Tibetan jewellery, see our article Tibetan Jewellery: Meaning Behind the Symbols and Stones.

A sliding knot takes the place of a clasp: use it to draw the bracelet tighter or looser. It is light, sits comfortably on the wrist and pairs well with a bracelet mala or a copper bangle.

In Tibetan, copper is called «zangs». For centuries the metal has been an important material in Himalayan art. Many Buddha statues from Nepal and Tibet are made of repoussé or cast copper, which is then fire-gilded. Water vessels and ritual vessels are also traditionally made of copper.

The knotted cord takes up the form of Tibetan blessing cords. They are called Sungdü, literally «protection knot». A lama ties a knot in the cord, recites a mantra over it and passes it on, often after a teaching or ceremony. This bracelet is not a blessed cord. Its meaning lies in the intention with which you wear it, for example as a quiet reminder of calm and mindfulness.

Place the bracelet around your wrist and pull evenly on both ends of the cord until it sits comfortably. To loosen it, hold the sliding knot and gently draw the bracelet apart. It can be worn on its own or together with a bracelet mala or a copper bangle.

In Tibetan tradition, blessed cords are worn on the wrist or around the neck. Many people treat them with respect and do not put them down carelessly, for example on the floor.

Beads

copper

Bead diameter

approx. 5 mm

Bead shape

irregular, slightly twisted

Cord

braided

Ends

two tassels with one bead each

Closure

sliding knot

Circumference smallest setting

approx. 16 cm

Circumference largest setting

approx. 24 cm

Weight

approx. 10 g

Making

strung by hand

Origin

Nepal

As each bracelet is strung by hand, slight variations are possible.
We measure and weigh by hand, so all figures are approximate.

Copper is a natural metal and can change over time through contact with air, moisture and skin. When needed, clean the beads dry with a soft cloth and avoid lemon juice, vinegar or cleaning products, as these can damage or discolour the cord. Take the bracelet off for showering, swimming and sport, and let it air-dry if it does get wet. Store it dry, for example in a fabric pouch.