Tibetan Rose Quartz Mala, Knotted, 6 mm

The string of prayer beads, Threngwa in Tibetan, accompanies the daily recitation of mantras in Tibetan Buddhism. This mala of rose quartz beads is strung by hand in Nepal and knotted between every bead with pink cord. A larger guru bead with a top piece closes the circle, with two short cord ends with beads hanging from it. You can read how to use and care for a mala in our article How to Use and Care for Your Tibetan Prayer Beads (Mala) Properly.

The knots give each bead its place, so the beads glide calmly and evenly through your fingers.

The Sanskrit word mala means wreath or garland; in Tibetan, the string of prayer beads is called Threngwa. Like the traditional Tibetan mala, this one has 108 beads, a number regarded as significant in Buddhism. One full round therefore comprises 108 recitations. The larger guru bead marks the beginning and end of a round: when counting, you turn back at it instead of passing over it.

The association of rose quartz with love, harmony and compassion does not come from Tibetan tradition but from modern gemstone symbolism. If you practise with Om Mani Padme Hum, the mantra of compassion of Chenrezig, you will find a fitting echo in its soft colour. The mala itself is not a talisman. Its meaning lies in the intention and attention with which you use it.

Hold the mala in your left hand and begin with the bead next to the guru bead. With each recitation, draw one bead towards you with your thumb until you arrive back at the guru bead after 108 recitations. To keep counting, turn the mala around and go back in the other direction. In between, you can wear it around your neck or wrap it several times around your wrist.

Many Tibetans carry their mala with them all day and use quiet moments, on the way somewhere or while waiting, for a mantra. Do not place the mala on the floor and keep it in a clean place, such as on your home altar.

Material

rose quartz

Beads

108

Bead diameter

approx. 6 mm

Guru bead

with top piece

Finish

two cord ends with beads

Cord

pink, knotted between the beads

Circumference

approx. 90 cm

Weight

approx. 40 g

Made

strung and knotted by hand

Origin

Nepal

As each mala is strung and knotted by hand and every stone has its own markings, the shade and pattern of the beads may differ slightly from the picture. Fine inclusions and variations in colour are part of the stone.

Wipe the beads with a soft, dry cloth when needed. Take the mala off for showering, bathing, swimming and sport, as moisture, perfume and creams weaken the cord over time. Do not expose rose quartz to direct sunlight for long periods, as its soft colour may fade. Store the mala dry and without tension, for example in a fabric pouch.