A mala chain is longer, more decorative, and more statement-making than a standard gold chain. It is traditionally inspired by the prayer mala, reinterpreted in 22ct gold for contemporary South Asian style. At PureJewels, our fancy mala chain collection is crafted in 22ct gold in yellow gold, rose gold, and rhodium-finish styles, available in lengths from 16 to 26 inches. With bead detailing, geometric elements, and two-tone finishes, these chains work equally as a standalone statement, layered with other chains, or as the setting for a large pendant. Prices from £350.
22ct Gold Tulsi Beaded Mala
£2,900.00
22ct Gold Tulsi Mala with Gold Spacers
£2,735.00
22ct Gold Textured Bead Chain Mala
£1,175.00
22ct Gold Tulsi Mala with Black Beads
£1,945.00
22ct Gold Mala Necklace | 24 Inches
£5,525.00
22 Carat Gold Tulsi Mala | 26 Inches
£1,685.00
22ct Gold Rudraksh Mala | 26 Inches
£6,345.00
22ct Gold Mala Necklace | 20 Inches
£4,645.00
22ct Gold Mala Necklace | 24 Inches
£5,740.00
22ct Gold Mala Necklace | 16 Inches
£2,530.00
22 Carat Gold Tulsi Mala | 25 Inches
£1,870.00
22ct Gold Pearl Chain | 20 Inches
£3,190.00
What Is a Fancy Mala Chain?
The word mala (माला) comes from Sanskrit, meaning “garland” or “necklace.” Traditionally, a mala refers to a string of prayer beads — used in Hindu and Buddhist practice for meditation and mantra repetition, similar in function to the rosary. In the context of gold jewellery, a mala chain describes any longer, bead-accented or decoratively worked chain — usually 18 inches or more — worn as a statement necklace rather than a simple chain.
At PureJewels, our fancy mala chains reinterpret this tradition in 22ct gold: bead-link constructions, geometric decorative elements at intervals, two-tone yellow-and-rhodium finishes, and rose gold variations. They are designed for daily or occasion wear — and because they are solid 22ct gold, they hold their value long after fashion trends have changed.
Why Order from PureJewels?
- Designed in-house in London: Our fancy mala chain designs are developed by our own team — not sourced from a generic wholesale catalogue. The rhodium-finish geometric chains, the rose gold bead designs, and the two-tone contrasting pieces are PureJewels originals.
- 22ct gold throughout — not plated: Every chain is solid 22ct gold, hallmarked by the London Assay Office. Rhodium-finish pieces use solid 22ct gold with a rhodium surface treatment — the gold content is unchanged. There is no base-metal core or plating that wears off.
- Multiple lengths in stock: Our mala chains are available in 16″, 18″, 20″, 22″, and 24″–26″ lengths — unlike many retailers who stock only one or two sizes. Choose based on how you intend to wear and layer.
- Bespoke length and finish available: If you need a specific length or custom finish, contact us via Live Chat. Our team can advise on what is currently achievable and the expected lead time.
Fancy Mala Chain Styles at PureJewels
Yellow Gold Bead Mala Chains
The classic mala chain construction — small round or faceted gold beads strung in a continuous link, creating a fluid, light-reflecting chain that sits differently from a flat foxtail or box chain. Available in 17″–22″ lengths. The most traditional and versatile style — works with both plain and pendant wear.
Rhodium Finish & Two-Tone Mala Chains
Our geometric-inspired chains use a rhodium finish at decorative intervals — typically every third or fourth element — creating a silver-white accent against deep yellow 22ct gold. The contrast is subtle but striking, and these chains photograph exceptionally well. The kite-like patterns imprinted into alternate elements give these chains a contemporary character.
Rose Gold Mala Chains
A warm, pinkish-gold tone achieved through the copper-alloy composition. Rose gold mala chains sit beautifully against warm skin tones and add a softer, more contemporary feel compared to classic yellow gold. Available in 18″–22″ lengths.
How to Style a Mala Chain
- Worn alone as a statement: A longer mala chain (20″–24″) worn by itself with an open neckline — a plain salwar or Western shirt — is its own complete look. No pendant needed.
- Layered with shorter chains: Pair a 22″ mala chain with a shorter foxtail or box chain at 16″–18″. The mala provides the depth; the shorter chain sits at the collarbone. Keep both in 22ct yellow gold, or use a two-tone mala to mix tones intentionally.
- As a pendant chain: Longer mala chains (20″–26″) work beautifully with a heavy statement pendant — a deity pendant, a large initial, or a layered disc pendant.
- With a choker: A longer mala chain worn alongside a close-fitting choker at 14″–16″ creates a layered necklace set from a single outfit.
Mala Chain Length Guide
Length | Sits At | Best For |
16″ / 40cm | Base of throat | Close-fitting look; above a kameez neckline |
18″ / 45cm | Collarbone | Most versatile — daily and occasion; pendant chains |
20″ / 50cm | Upper chest | Statement solo wear; layering anchor piece |
22″ / 55cm | Mid-chest | Traditional mala length; pairs well with shorter chain |
24–26″ / 60–65cm | Below chest | Maximum mala length; heavy pendants or dramatic layering |
Also Known As — Regional Names for Mala Chains
- Mala (Sanskrit / Hindi — garland, necklace)
- Haar (Hindi / Punjabi — necklace)
- Sona mala (Hindi — gold mala)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a mala chain and a regular gold chain?
A mala chain is longer and more decoratively worked than a standard gold chain — it typically features bead constructions, geometric elements, or patterned links at intervals rather than a continuous simple link pattern. Standard gold chains (foxtail, box, curb) are designed to be secondary to a pendant or to be subtle daily wear pieces. A mala chain is designed to be noticed on its own — it is a statement necklace as much as a chain.
Is the rhodium finish on mala chains permanent?
Rhodium is a hard, bright white metal applied as a thin coating over the gold surface. It is durable but not permanent — over time, with regular wear, the rhodium finish will gradually wear to reveal the yellow gold beneath. This usually takes several years with daily wear. The chain does not become damaged — it simply returns to its natural 22ct yellow gold appearance. Rhodium can be reapplied by a jeweller to restore the original two-tone finish.
Can a mala chain be worn with a pendant?
Yes — longer mala chains work particularly well with substantial pendants. A deity pendant, large initial, or geometric drop pendant all pair naturally with a 20″–24″ mala chain. The bead or geometric chain adds visual weight that balances a heavier pendant better than a simple foxtail or box chain. For lighter pendants, a shorter 16″–18″ plain mala chain is the cleaner choice.
What length mala chain is best for layering?
For layering, choose a mala chain that sits at least 2″ below any other chain you are wearing. A typical layering combination: a plain gold chain at 16″, a foxtail or spiga chain at 18″, and a mala chain at 20″–22″. Keep all chains in the same metal — all 22ct yellow gold — unless using a two-tone mala deliberately to introduce contrast.