Inspired by traditional Cambodian prayer beads, these beautiful gold katah come in an array of interesting styles: angular and barrel in 14kt or 18kt; and filigree and crosshatch in 14kt with gemstones (ruby, sapphire, diamond or emerald). The beads may be purchased alone or with an 18kt gold chain in a choice of 16 inch or 18 inch lengths. Note: All beads require a thin chain with a small end-piece.
Also see our gold lantern katah and sterling silver katah.
Cambodian prayer bead (katah): Today in Cambodia, a wealthy woman might wear a single gold katah on a chain around her neck. More commonly, though, a Cambodian woman of more modest means might wear several silver katah on a cord around her waist and hidden under her garments. According to tradition, the Khmer (Cambodian) women would seek the blessings of monks who copied scriptures onto small bits of palm leaf, silver or more recently, paper. Those scriptures were then rolled up and inserted into katah made from clay, bamboo, lead, silver or gold, depending on the woman’s economic status. After that, each monk would add his personal “magic” through a prayer offering.
Questions? Out of stock? Email us.
Neal Mahoney (verified owner) –
Mark went far beyond anything I could reasonably expect in terms of service. He personally delivered my gift purchase to Phnom Penh Cambodia and photographed the joyful recipient for me. Many thanks for the exemplary service.
Julie H. (verified owner) –
This gold barrel-shape katah is beautifully made, genuine fine gold, delicate filigree, and authentic Cambodian design and quality. Last year I lost my late mother’s Khmer ‘tube pendant’, it was over 30 years old, and I have been searching the internet for a replacement. Kasumisou was the only website I could find with anything like it, I did not know it was a prayer bead, or that it was called a ‘katah’, and after saving up to order one, it is just perfect. I have not taken it off since it arrived. My mother wore hers 24/7 for 20 years and I feel closer to her again, I am so glad to know now that it is a woman’s prayer bead. Thank you Kasumisou for supporting traditional Cambodian artisans and providing such beautiful genuine authentic jewellery.