prayer beads

Rituu honors Hinduism and Buddhism with a glistening jap mala that is crafted by hand with aventurine, the stone of chance or luck. Also known as prayer beads or rosary, it consists of 108 malas or beads, sometimes 109, which are flicked with the thumb during jap or meditation. That way the person may concentrate fully on repeating mantras. In Buddhism, the 108 beads represent the human passions, while in Hinduism their symbolism is more complex. The number may refer to the names of Vishnu and Shiva in the Mahabharat; the 108 Upanishads; the number of deities of knowledge and various sciences; and the various permutations of the soul's defects, amongst others.

According to Hindu custom, the correct way to hold the jap mala is with the right hand, draped over the middle finger and using the thumb to flick through the beads. Since it is believed the index finger represents ego, the greatest impediment to self-realization, it is best avoided when chanting on a mala.

This jap mala features 435 gemstone carats.

From Balinese designer Ketut Sulastri, this bohemian stretch bracelet celebrates the beauty of nature's gifts. Beads of mala wood encircle the wrist, centered by alternating labradorite and 22k gold plated sterling silver beads. Finished with a petite grey tassel.

Oxidation gives the charm on this handcrafted bracelet an ancient vibe. The 950 silver charm bears the symbol for om, a sacred sound and traditional mantra used in prayer and meditation. Thai artisan Napapat centers the charm on braided black cords punctuated with beads of high-purity Karen hill tribe silver. A sliding knot allows you to adjust the bracelet to the desired length.

Knotted by hand, this adjustable macramé bracelet by Rituu features shining silver globes and sleek onyx beads. This is a Shambhala-style bracelet, representing a mythical kingdom based on ancient prophesies. Shambhala-style represents tranquility, peace and happiness – the oneness of all.

.925 Sterling silver

In Bali, tilem is the night of the new moon, where the lunar cycle starts over and no moon can be seen in the sky. A Hindu tradition of a Balinese ceremony and prayer to Dewa Suryai, the sun god, takes place on the night of the new moon before sunrise. The tilem moon is represented here in a beautiful pair of dangle earrings by Balinese artisan Made Sugi. Beads of black onyx rest gracefully in a 925 sterling silver setting.

Working with cultured pearls, amethyst gems and carnelian stones, Thai artisan Tipa creates a wonderful beaded bracelet to attract faith and positive energies. The jewels symbolize innocence, grace and luck, adding a special meaning to the item, which also features a luminous silver cross dangling from the accessory, guiding you in your daily life.

Bring faith and positive energies to your life with this beaded bracelet handcrafted by Thailand's Tipa. Working with sterling silver, the artisan creates an elegant accessory with a silver cross charm that will give you courage through the day.