What is "rudraksha"

n. 1 A large evergreen broad-leaved tree whose seed is traditionally used for prayer beads in Hinduism. 2 A bead chain or mala made from it.

Rudraksha, also rudraksh, Sanskrit: ("Rudra's [Shiva's] Teardrops"), is a seed traditionally used for prayer beads in Hinduism. The seed is produced by several species of large evergreen broad-leaved tree in the genus Elaeocarpus, with Elaeocarpus ganitrus being the principal species used in the making of organic jewellery or mala.

Rudraksha, being organic, is preferably worn in ways that do not involve metal; thus on a cord or thong rather than a chain.