Old Nepalese rudraksha mala #19

Old Nepalese rudraksha mala, from vintage origin.

This necklace is a so called "kantha mala"; a rudraksha mala strung together in a very traditional way with wool and (red) woolen spacers in between the beads. The beads are all strung facing the same position, giving the divine energy the possibility to circulate through each bead, multiplying and increasing by each spiraling movement, and finally coming together as a strong force in the central, 'guru' bead of the necklace from where it enters the body of the one wearing it.

Rudraksha beads are categorized by the number of faces/facets that can be distinguished on the surface. These are called 'mukhi'. In this mala, 5 mukhi beads have been used. The 5 faced rudraksha bead is the most commonly used type, it represents the five forms of Lord Shiva himself. The 5 mukhi rudraksha helps in awakening one's higher self and from there the personal connection to the divine. Also, 5 mukhi rudraksha beads have a special affinity for the 5th chakra, the Visshudha or throat chakra.

In total 55 beads (54 + guru) with a diameter of approximately 18 millimeters haven been used. Some of the beads have become very dark over time, almost black, which is also said to have increased their power; most rudraksha beads turn naturally darker over time, so the longer they have ripened the darker they have become. And in this ripening process, over time they have gained a lot of natural energy.

Total length of this necklace is approximately 92 centimeters. Being from vintage origin, it of course shows some signs of its age and previous usage.