What sets this piece apart is it picks up other colors and reflects them back with a blueish hue. I wanted a simple mala but one that I could wear everyday. Other's are too loud, too long, and not substantial. This mala is gorgeous, easy to wear with anything, and because it looks like it's constantly changing colors, I can't keep my eyes off of it and often find that focusing on it can help me meditate. It's gorgeous -- I had been looking at it for awhile and finally decided that it would be my new years gift to myself. Worth every penny!!! And the customer service from Buddha Groove cannot be beat! (Posted on 1/11/13)