How to choose a single-loop Old Tree King mala (prayer beads)? First, get these 3 key points straight. There are quite a few tricks to picking a single-loop Old Tree King mala, but the core only boils down to 3 points. Once you grasp these 3 points, you will definitely pick a high-quality mala. Don't get confused by all kinds of fancy sales pitches; focus on the key points, and picking a mala will be easy.

Check the density

The first point is to check the density. Density is the core of a mala's quality. A high-density mala feels weighty in the hand, makes a crisp sound, and develops a translucent patina after breaking-in; a low-density mala feels light and loose, and will never yield a satisfactory effect no matter how you break it in. When picking a single-loop Old Tree King mala, first get a clear sense of its density: hold it in your hand and weigh it, the one that feels weighty has good density. Once you pass this check, you are already halfway to getting a great mala.

Check the grain / texture

The second point is to check the grain / texture. The Old Tree King has fine, dense and regular grain / texture. When selecting, check if the grain / texture is even; the top-tier ones have consistent thickness across all beads. Then check the fullness of the flesh: the ones with plump and rounded ridges are comfortable to handle during breaking-in. The grain / texture determines the appearance and hand feel, so inspect it carefully when picking a mala. Do not choose the ones with messy and shriveled grain / texture. If the grain / texture is up to standard, the appearance of the mala is guaranteed.

Check the cortex

The third point is to check the cortex. Check the color and oiliness of the cortex: a good cortex has even, oily and lustrous color, and a glossy surface indicates sufficient oil content; a poor cortex looks dull and gray, and will produce a bad effect after breaking-in. When picking a single-loop Old Tree King mala, if you fully understand the three key points of density, grain / texture and cortex, you will definitely pick a satisfying mala. If all three points are met and the price is reasonable, you can buy it with full confidence.