You’ve probably seen them on the wrists of Hollywood fashion icons like Johnny Depp and Russell Brand. But what are those beaded bracelets called, anyway?
No need to wait, let’s get right into it.
What Are the Beaded Bracelets Called?
You’ll hear those chunky beaded bracelets called a few things, including yoga bracelets, mala beads, and chakra bracelets.
Every once in a while, you’ll also hear them called boho bracelets or stack bracelets.
What Are Mala Beads Used For?
Even though they’ve become a popular category of jewelry, mala beads can have a much deeper meaning and purpose.
When strung on a necklace, mala beads are used in a similar way as rosary beads.
Spiritual practitioners will hold the beads in one hand while they pray or recite a mantra, steadily moving from bead to bead to keep track of how many times they’ve prayed.
This is why you’ll often see one larger, differently colored bead on a string of mala beads.
Known as the “guru” bead, it’s the starting and ending point for these recitation practices.
Is It OK To Wear Mala Beads If You’re Not Religious or Spiritual?
So, now you know that these beaded bracelets are often used as reminders of a person’s devotion to their religious practices.
If you’re not a part of the traditions that these beads come from, you may be worried about offending someone by wearing them.
But in my experience, this fear is unfounded.
For one, the majority of beaded bracelets aren’t true mala bracelets. They’re adapted from the mala style, but look very different from the beads used for spiritual practices.
And for two, you’re not harming anyone by wearing something that would draw more attention to their spiritual practices.
Buddhism, for example, often enjoys anything that would help more people to find their way to the Buddhist path — including taking notice of a decorative bracelet.
In short: Don’t worry about wearing mala bead bracelets, even if you’re not using them for religious or spiritual purposes.
What Are the Most Popular Bead Bracelets?
The most popular bead bracelets are made from natural stones. This includes a whole range of colors and textures, from many-hued agate to vibrant purple amethyst or rough and ready volcanic rock.
Occasionally, you’ll see those natural stones crowned with a single metal bead. This is a great way to introduce contrast to your jewelry choices, making them more eye-catching.
Less commonly, you’ll find beaded bracelets made entirely of metal beads. There’s also hematite, a natural stone that looks like a cross between metal and stone.
Being as shiny as they are, these beaded bracelets are best used to complement more neutral outfits.
This bracelet takes the classic black beaded bracelet and adds a pop of color as a twist.
ARO Matt Snowflake Obsidian & Map Jasper Bracelet with 14ct gold filled bead (gold filled jewelry is up to 10,000 times thicker than regular gold plating). Strung on thick durable stretch elastic.
Tiger-eye’s golden-yellow tone is said to clear the path for sound decision-making, so consider this an easy one to make. Handcrafted in a stainless steel chain with an oxidized sterling silver clasp.
Should Guys Wear Beaded Bracelets?
Heck yeah guys should wear beaded bracelets! They’re cool, and easy to mix and match with different outfits.
If you like the looks of beaded bracelets, try them out. Start with a beaded bracelet on your non-watch wrist. If you like how that looks, try stacking a small bracelet on your watch hand, too.
And if that feels great, start stacking up multiple bracelets on your non-watch hand to create your signature look.
Any questions?
When you’re ready to start wearing bracelets, check out our guide to 12 popular bracelets for guys to wear every day.
Then if you have any questions, drop us a line on Instagram and we’ll get you sorted out.