This traditional mala necklace is made from Tridacna Stone, hand-knotted on silk. The counter beads are dragon-etched Tibetan Carnelian, with gold accents of Ethiopian tribal brass

Tridacna stone is the whitest stone in the world and a very rare gemstone that has been used in Buddhist relics. Tridacna is known as one of the Seven Treasures of Buddhism, highly prized by Buddhists. It is valued for protecting the wearer from evil spirits and providing spiritual strength. It is thought to balance the mind and emotions, easing stress and improving sleep. Tridacna stone comes from the giant tridacna clam, found in the Philippines region, which can weigh as much as 500 lbs.