When do you not wear a rudraksha?

Rudraksha can be worn by people of any age, gender or religion, at all times. The only time it is not preferred to be worn is during funerals. Rudraksha can absorb the negative energy during the funeral services and can affect the wearer in some ways. Hence, it is better to stay on the safer side and not wear rudraksha to funerals. 

How do you differentiate real and fake rudraksha?

Sometimes it becomes a problem to distinguish between the real and the fake rudraksha beads as the prospective manufacturers have taken their time and learnt how to mimic the real rudraksha beads. However, there are a few methods you can use to identify genuine rudraksha beads:

• Look for surface texture: Real Rudraksha beads have a very rough surface; they are distinct with natural noname formation on its surface. Fake ones may be surface flat or slightly jagged but they can be distinguished because they look too polished.
• Check for mukhi (facets): Rudraksha beadsare classified by the number of faces or facets, known as “mukhi”, which are the physical lines on the bead that run down the middle from the top to the bottom. These are formed as a result of the compartments within the seed. The number of mukhis may be any, but the most frequent ascending is the five. Look at the following features of the mukhi: authentic rudraksha beads do not possess overlapping or ill-defined mukhi. While in the real ones, it is etched on them and may be difficult to distinguish it from the surface while in the fake ones the lines may seem to have been painted on.
• Float test: Rudraksha are seeds of trees with the same name. Hence, they are denser and can sink to the bottom of a bowl of water. Fake rudrakshas are usually made with wood, which have lighter density making them float. This method is not completely foolproof, hence is not a recommended method of distinguishing. But it can be considered one of the methods since the fakes are usually made from wood materials. �
• Check for color change: Outwardly, the natural genuine beads of rudraksha are unique; these may change mildly in color upon wearing, turning slightly darker as a result of absorption of natural skin oils. This method may take some time, but is also an effective method to know that you have bought a fake.
• Smell: Pure or original Rudraksha should have an aroma which is natural and reminds you of the earth. The fakes may not possess this smell or may smell different owing to the artificial smells which are electrically added.
• Consult an expert: If you are not sure that the rudraksha bead that you acquired is genuine, then it would be wise to seek professional help from a competent professional trader or user.

It is however important to note that these methods are not conclusive, and thus it is always recommended to buy the Rudraksha from a trusted source.

What is rudraksha mukhi?

Rudraksha beads are actually in mythology with features or faces and they are identified as mukhis, and every mukhis have its own superior attributes and special powers according to Hindu mythology. Here is a brief introduction to 24 mukhi rudrakshas. 

Ek Mukhi Rudraksha: Holy, considered to be a sacred flavor linked with Lord Shiva, rarely found. In another aspect its icons show unity, enlightenment and the idea of the kingdom of heaven.

Do Mukhi Rudraksha: they also depict Ardhanarishvara, which is the composite image of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is said that it has the ability to bring improvement in happiness and bonding.

Teen Mukhi Rudraksha: Symbolises the three Js (Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh). They are used as a phrase to convey confidence and energy according to popular culture.

Char Mukhi Rudraksha: Swarupa of the Gayatri Mantra is associated with the four Vedas and the four directions. Education is thought to foster creativity as well as expand world knowledge.

Panch Mukhi Rudraksha: Indicates the five elements that form all things in the universe, namely, the earth, water, fire, air and ether. Readily, it is expected to contribute towards stability and otherwise create a feeling of harmony.

Chhah Mukhi Rudraksha: Kurma possesses Kartikeya, the god of War. Some Hindus regard it as symbolising prowess and invincibility.

Saat Mukhi Rudraksha: Alphabet closely linked with the Sapta Rishis or the Seven Sages. The baila is believed to bring good luck and the feel of the money in the hands of the performers symbolises wealth.

Aath Mukhi Rudraksha: Being a worshipping incarnation of Lord Ganesha they are integrating. In order to remove the barriers and enjoy the success of life, Jika is deemed to serve this purpose.

Nau Mukhi Rudraksha: a) related to Navadurgas (Nine forms of Goddess Durga). The need for such an artifact is based on the belief that it increases devotion as well as dispels fear.

Das Mukhi Rudraksha: Religious significance : Most famously connected with Lord Krishna. It is strongly held that a home affords shelter and protection as well as freedom from disturbance.

Gyaarah Mukhi Rudraksha: It represents the eleven forms of Rudra. It was considered to be auspicious, bestowing the virtues of intelligence and the ability to endure.

Barah Mukhi Rudraksha: Identified with Lord Sun or Surya Putra in Hindu mythology. It is with the belief that the plant increases vitality and leadership abilities of students.

Terah Mukhi Rudraksha: It is associated with Lord Kamadeva or Kamadeva as well as Kamrun. This charm is often said to improve charisma and sexual appeal.

Chaudah Mukhi Rudraksha: Attributes: Associated with Lord Hanuman. According to traditional culture, it is also believed to offer protection and courage.

Pandrah Mukhi Rudraksha: Closely linked with Lord Pashupatinath, the chief deity of Nepal. It has also been thought to foster spiritual development and extended perception.

Solah Mukhi Rudraksha: Very rare symbol, linked with Mahamrityunjaya (Great Victory Over Death). It is done in a bid to safeguard an individual from any early death.

Satrah Mukhi Rudraksha: It is prescribed for the practitioners of the Seventeen Syllable Mantra. People believed that it helps to progress in the spiritual ladder.

Atharah Mukhi Rudraksha: Being associated with Mother Earth made this possible. It is also deemed to offer stead and support to the core.

Unnis Mukhi Rudraksha: As is known they are associated with Lord Vishnu. This is generally known to exemplify the promotion of wealth and richness.

Bees Mukhi Rudraksha: Related to Lord Brahma. It is also believed that this instrument has the capacity to improve creativity and knowledge.

Ek-Vishnavatata: Twenty-One Mukhi Rudraksha is a very, very rare bead and it is symbolically connected to Lord Kuber. It is generally associated with wealth and prosperity and perceived to offer significant opportunities for making money.

Veesa-Vinashaka: Twenty-Two Mukhi Rudraksha: Known to occur very rarely, this bead is witnessed by Lord Ganesha. According to others it drives away evil and grants one’s wishes.

Dwavisatatamaha Rudraksha: Very rare, uses a weapon originating from the god Lord Brahma. It is said to facilitate inner growth and, therefore, such wisdom.

Chaturvishantaka Rudraksha: Rarely shown; tamed or worshipped by Lord Vishnu. It is believed to have protecting power and possessing blessings or curses.