Size guide
Find your bead size.
Our bracelets are sized by the bead: the number is the width of one bead, in millimetres. Here is how to read it, how each size looks and feels, and how to enjoy each material.
-
01
Read the number
Bead size is the width of one bead, measured straight across, in millimetres. Every piece lists its bead size; where there are several, choose one from the options.
-
02
Picture it
For scale, a pencil is about 7 mm thick and a US dime is about 18 mm across.
-
03
Allow for nature
Natural beads can differ slightly from one to the next, so the listed size is a close guide rather than an exact measurement of every bead.
Bead sizes, and how they look and feel
-
6–8.5 mm
Slim
Light and delicate. Often strung as a long 108-bead mala that wraps several times, or worn as a slim single strand beside a watch or other bracelets. Quiet enough for every day.
-
9–12 mm
Classic
The everyday bracelet. Present but understated, comfortable through a day at the desk or a long flight, and easy to turn between the fingers when you want a moment of calm.
-
12.5–15.5 mm
Generous
A fuller bead with more presence at the wrist. The larger surface shows grain, colour and patina beautifully — as lovely to hold in the hand as it is to wear.
-
16 mm and above
Statement
Bold beads with real weight, as much for the hand as for the wrist; many people take them off to turn them in the palm. For anyone who loves presence.
Materials, and how to enjoy them
-
Nephrite jade
Simply wear it against the skin. Jade needs no special handling: its soft glow deepens with everyday contact. Take it off for sport and housework.
-
Kuke
Wear it and turn it with clean hands. Its colour deepens within weeks, and it is relaxed about everyday life — a lovely first bracelet.
-
Monkey head
Brush the grooves for the first few weeks, then wear and handle it often. The colour moves from sandy tan to a glossy red-brown remarkably quickly.
-
Hand walnuts — White Lion, Apple Orchard
Brush the ridges daily at first, then roll the pair gently in one hand. These varieties colour readily and reward a few minutes a day.
-
Zitan & fragrant woods
Handle it daily with clean, dry hands, keep it away from water and lotion, and let new beads rest a day or two now and then. The colour deepens steadily into a glass-like sheen.
-
Vajra bodhi
Brush the grooves gently at first, handle it with clean hands in short sessions, and let it rest in between. Keep it out of strong sun and air-conditioning drafts.
-
Star-moon bodhi
Wipe and handle it with clean, dry hands. Over the months it turns from ivory to warm honey, and the dark "stars" stand out ever more clearly.
Choosing a walnut size
Walnuts are measured across the widest point of the edge, in millimetres. Smaller pairs roll quickly and quietly; larger pairs fill the palm and feel more substantial. Every pair is listed with its exact size — if you are unsure, tell us about your hand and how you like to roll them, and we will suggest a pair.