​Mala beads are a strand of 108 beads used for keeping count during mantra meditations, also known as japa mala meditation. They can be made of semi-precious gemstones, all of which hold a different metaphysical healing property, or rudraksha seeds, used traditionally as a tactile aid. Many choose to match the intention of the meditation to the properties of the stone. Mala beads are often worn for the intention of the stone, or placed on an altar as a reminder of the affirmation.