These are 108 bead malas or prayer beads designed for repeating mantras or prayers. They can also be worn as a necklace. They include a large top bead which is a rudraksha bead and a dark red tassel. The most important aspect of this mala is the beads themselves which are made of nothing but rose petals. The beads are hand-rolled one at a time and keep the original fragrance of the rose petals they are made from. The fragrance is very stable and lasts over time. The beads themselves are hard and durable and have an ancient history. They were first created in India over 2000 years ago and in the 1500's the Catholic faith adopted them and that became the rosary.