The first prayer beads (“Sanskrit: mala, meaning “garland”) grew out of the Vedic tradition in India and were the prototype for prayer beads in later world cultures. (For more information on history and meaning, see our About Malas section.) Lotus seed makes a durable mala that has been used for centuries as a practice support. Light lotus seed is a pale beige with black specles, a pattern called "moon and stars" in Asia. This imported mala is finished with a red or maroon endless knot. Marker beads may be special ordered for an additional $8.00 to $10.00 depending on the number added to the mala. Placement of markers can be arranged according to one’s meditation tradition. Please contact us for more details.