This Buddhist mala, or meditation/ prayer beads are used for counting scared mantras (prayers). These are considered "heavenly garland," bringing fortune to the recipient; This ritual object is also used to gain merit on the path to enlightenment; The main strand, including 108 beads, was hand crafted by Tibetan Buddhist artisans using (likely) yak bones. Each bead was cut by hand and selected to make this Mala--therefore each bead is unique (not mass produced and not exactly the same). See evidence of the hand work in the photos. It was purchased in Dharmsala, India from a Tibetan artisan. When hanging, it is about 14 inches long, but if measured in a single strand, it is about 28 inches. Weight: 66.8 grams