
How to Wear Rudraksha Correctly: Rules, Mantra, Metal, and Thread & Care
Imagine you have decided to wear a Rudraksha for a spiritual or traditional purpose. You start looking online and find different Mukhi Rudrakshas, malas, bracelets and pendants. Some sellers focus on the appearance of the bead, while others mention authenticity, certification and specific Mukhi types. This can naturally leave you wondering: Which Rudraksha should you choose? How should it be worn? Which day is considered suitable? What mantra should you follow? And how can you make sure the Rudraksha you purchase is genuine?
While Rudraksha beads have been associated with traditions of faith and spirituality, the process of acquiring and using one goes beyond just getting the bead itself. It involves taking precautions regarding the correct Mukhi, the method of wearing the beads, the mantras to be used, and what material should be used for the threads of the beads.
If you are thinking of using it for any religious or astrological purpose, understanding the above factors will enable you to make the right choice.
This guide explains the important things to consider when choosing, wearing and caring for Rudraksha.
Pick the right Rudraksha to wear
Before purchasing the Rudraksha, ensure that you select one according to your requirements. Different Mukhi Rudraksha carry different traditions. Hence, merely choosing one based on its shape or popularity would not be advisable.
In case of Vedic or astrological use, you should know the proper Mukhi before making the purchase decision.
Important points to consider before buying
- Correct Identification of Mukhi: Ensure the correct identification of the Mukhi of the Rudraksha.
- Genuine Rudraksha: Make sure you buy genuine Rudraksha and do not solely depend on appearance to decide about it.
- Laboratory Certification: A laboratory certificate can provide supporting documentation about the bead.
- Good Physical Condition: Check that the Rudraksha is in suitable physical condition before wearing it.
- Intended Purpose: Choose the Rudraksha according to the purpose for which you intend to wear it.
A certified Rudraksha gives you better documentation about your purchase.
What day should you select for wearing the Rudraksha?
The date of wearing Rudraksha is significant in tradition. Mondays are traditionally linked with Lord Shiva's worship and are deemed very important for wearing Rudraksha.
The traditional process of wearing Rudraksha
- Clean Yourself: Take a shower and wear clean clothes.
- Purification of Rudraksha: You can follow particular methods to purify Rudraksha as per your tradition.
- Choose a Calm Place: You should be seated in a serene place.
- Perform Puja: Follow the traditional puja practice if appropriate for your purpose.
- Practise the Mantra: Recite the mantra associated with your Rudraksha or spiritual practice.
What is the mantra used?
“Om Namah Shivaya” is one of the renowned mantras for Shiva.
At the same time, certain Mukhi Rudrakshas may have their own specific mantras. Please follow the tradition when wearing Rudraksha for any particular use.
What are the benefits of wearing Rudraksha?

Rudraksha has been traditionally worn for centuries as a sacred bead associated with peace, spiritual growth, protection, and positive energy. Many people wear Rudraksha as part of their daily spiritual practices, meditation, or simply as a reminder to stay calm and balanced.
Traditionally, wearing the right Rudraksha is believed to help support mental clarity, inner peace, concentration, emotional balance, and spiritual connection. Different Mukhi Rudraksha beads are associated with different traditional energies and purposes, making the choice of Rudraksha an important part of the experience.
Looking for an Original Rudraksha? Explore Pure Vedic Gems
Which planet is associated with each mukhi Rudraksha?
Different Mukhi Rudrakshas are traditionally associated with different planets and deities. While some Mukhis have a clear planetary association, others are primarily associated with specific deities in traditional Rudraksha practices.
Mukhi Rudraksha, Planet, Deity & Traditional Significance:
- 1 Mukhi — Sun (Surya) | Lord Shiva: Traditionally associated with the Sun and Lord Shiva. It is considered significant for confidence, individuality, leadership and spiritual focus.
- 2 Mukhi — Moon (Chandra) | Ardhanarishvara: Traditionally connected with the Moon and Ardhanarishvara. It is associated with harmony, emotional balance, relationships and inner peace.
- 3 Mukhi — Mars (Mangal) | Agni: Associated with Mars and Agni. Traditionally linked with courage, energy, action and overcoming hesitation.
- 4 Mukhi — Mercury (Budh) | Lord Brahma: Associated with Mercury and Lord Brahma. It is traditionally connected with intelligence, learning, communication and creativity.
- 5 Mukhi — Jupiter (Guru) | Kalagni Rudra: Associated with Jupiter and Lord Kalagni Rudra. Traditionally linked with wisdom, knowledge, concentration and spiritual development.
- 6 Mukhi — Venus (Shukra) | Lord Kartikeya: Associated with Venus and Lord Kartikeya. It is traditionally linked with discipline, learning, focus and refinement.
- 7 Mukhi — Saturn (Shani) | Goddess Mahalakshmi: Associated with Saturn and Goddess Mahalakshmi. Traditionally connected with stability, prosperity, patience and perseverance.
- 8 Mukhi — Rahu | Lord Ganesha: Associated with Rahu and Lord Ganesha. Traditionally considered significant for overcoming obstacles, challenges and delays.
- 9 Mukhi — Ketu | Goddess Durga: Associated with Ketu and Goddess Durga. Traditionally linked with courage, inner strength, confidence and spiritual growth.
- 10 Mukhi — Lord Vishnu: Primarily associated with Lord Vishnu rather than a single planet. Traditionally considered significant for protection, stability, confidence and spiritual strength.
- 11 Mukhi — Lord Hanuman: Associated with Lord Hanuman and traditionally linked with courage, strength, confidence, determination and protection.
- 12 Mukhi — Sun (Surya) | Lord Surya: Associated with the Sun and Lord Surya. Traditionally connected with leadership, authority, confidence, vitality and self-expression.
- 13 Mukhi — Venus (Shukra) | Lord Indra: Associated with Venus and Lord Indra. Traditionally linked with attraction, creativity, fulfilment, confidence and abundance.
- 14 Mukhi — Saturn (Shani) | Lord Hanuman: Traditionally associated with Saturn and Lord Hanuman. It is considered significant for strength, stability, courage, decision-making and overcoming difficulties.
- 15 Mukhi — Lord Pashupatinath: Primarily associated with Lord Shiva in the form of Pashupatinath. Traditionally linked with emotional balance, inner awareness, clarity and spiritual growth.
- 16 Mukhi — Lord Mahamrityunjaya: Associated with Lord Shiva in his Mahamrityunjaya form. Traditionally considered significant for protection, courage, strength and overcoming fear.
- 17 Mukhi — Goddess Katyayani: Traditionally associated with Goddess Katyayani. It is linked with strength, determination, fulfilment of aspirations and prosperity.
- 18 Mukhi — Mother Earth (Prithvi): Associated with Mother Earth. Traditionally connected with grounding, stability, nurturing energy, balance and prosperity.
- 19 Mukhi — Lord Narayana: Associated with Lord Narayana. Traditionally linked with prosperity, abundance, fulfilment and overall well-being.
- 20 Mukhi — Lord Brahma: Associated with Lord Brahma. Traditionally connected with knowledge, creativity, higher awareness and spiritual development.
- 21 Mukhi — Lord Kubera: Associated with Lord Kubera. Traditionally considered significant for wealth, prosperity, abundance and material fulfilment.
Can one wear Rudraksha in the form of a mala, bracelet, or pendant?
According to tradition, Rudraksha can be worn in many different forms like mala, bracelet or pendant. The choice lies with the individual concerned, including how it is to be used and for what purpose.
Each form of Rudraksha has its own meaning attached to it, but there is one crucial thing to consider: Rudraksha should generally be utilised properly.
- Rudraksha Mala: Rudraksha mala has become popular for its use in prayers, meditations, and mantras.
- Rudraksha Bracelet: There are a few people who want to make use of Rudraksha in the form of a bracelet. In this case, the Rudraksha is worn on the wrist for the user’s comfort.
- Rudraksha Pendant: Rudraksha can also be used in the form of a pendant, but care needs to be taken to use a good-quality bead.
What thread or metal can be used with Rudraksha?
The way of wearing a Rudraksha can have an impact on its comfort level. Though Rudraksha beads can usually be strung with an appropriate thread, several individuals prefer to use gold or silver jewellery settings.
Wearing all Rudrakshas in the same metal is not essential since it is highly likely that one may need to choose their metal based on convenience, style and purpose of wearing the Rudraksha.
Tips to remember when wearing rudraksha
- The bead should be secured: The bead has to be held tightly in order to avoid slipping out of position.
- Make use of comfortable material: The choice of string or findings should be comfortable for use.
- Protect the Rudraksha from being broken: The type of material has to be easily compatible with the bead.
- Consider levels of usage: When buying the Rudraksha beading material, make sure to consider the adequacy of the option chosen.
- Follow the instructions: If the Rudraksha is to be used for astrological purposes, make sure to follow the relevant instructions.
Always remember that the most important thing is to select the right and suitable Rudraksha, not the metal which is being used with it.
How to clean and store Rudraksha?
The correct and proper upkeep of Rudraksha will allow the bead to be kept in a good and usable condition. Different kinds of moisture, scents or other items can damage the bead while being used daily; therefore, it is important to avoid unnecessary exposure to chemicals.
Rudraksha Care in Basic Form
- Use a soft cloth to wipe the Rudraksha.
- Stay away from strong cleaning products.
- Keep perfumes and soaps away from the Rudraksha.
- Never scrape or rub the Rudraksha.
- Inspect the thread or mount now and then.
- Keep the Rudraksha in a clean and dry place when not in use.
In order to keep the Rudraksha in good condition, just take some simple and regular care of it.
How to check a Rudraksha before wearing?
Before wearing Rudraksha, it is useful to check more than just its appearance. Correct Mukhi identification, authenticity and physical condition are important considerations, particularly when the bead is being purchased for a specific traditional or astrological purpose.
Checklist to verify Rudraksha authenticity
- Identify the Mukhi type.
- Confirm the authenticity of Rudraksha.
- Get a certificate from a certified laboratory.
- Verify the certificate with the Rudraksha.
- Check Rudraksha’s condition.
- Check the suitability of Rudraksha.
It is quite common for a person to feel confused while buying Rudraksha. The confusion often lies in choosing the appropriate Mukhi for Rudraksha, as one is unaware of the usage related to it. Getting expert guidance can help with understanding.
To purchase natural Rudraksha, ensure that the seller provides all kinds of information regarding Mukhi, whether it's authentic or not and if certification is provided. Pure Vedic Gems is a reliable name that emphasises helping buyers make informed choices about gems and Rudraksha and has been in business since 1937.
Related collection
Explore Rudraksha Collection
Compare certified pieces, treatment disclosures, and lab certificates.
Buying guidance
Frequently asked questions about how to wear Rudraksha
Can different beads be worn together with Rudraksha?
Yes, Rudraksha can be worn along with other types of sacred beads. However, it is advisable to consult a specialist when combining various beads, as there may be certain Vedic specifications involved in that process.
Can a worn Rudraksha be gifted to someone else?
It’s not a good idea to give away a worn Rudraksha already used by someone. It is better to choose a new bead for that person.
What should be done in case the Rudraksha cracks?
It is advisable to have the Rudraksha checked in case of significant damage or manifestation of cracks before continuing its use. In certain cases, it will be better to replace the bead.
How often should the thread of the Rudraksha be substituted?
The Rudraksha may be used as long as the thread is in good condition, so it should be regularly examined.
Is it possible to wear Rudraksha throughout the year?
Yes, Rudraksha can be worn throughout the year if it is well maintained.
Is it permitted to wear Rudraksha while sleeping?
There are different traditions, and depending on the type of Rudraksha, some people may choose to wear Rudraksha even while sleeping. Thus, depending on your individual tradition, it may be better to comply with it.
Does every Mukhi Rudraksha have the same standard significance?
No, Different Mukhis of Rudraksha have various traditional rules associated with their uses. Thus, when choosing Mukhi of Rudraksha, it should be chosen according to your intention in using Rudraksha and not just by the looks of the bead.


