In Jain Dharma, a mala (japmala / navkarwali) is usually made from simple, non‑violent, natural materials. There is no strict rule in Jain scriptures about one fixed material.

Common materials used for Jain malas:

• Chandan (sandalwood) beads – very common for Navkar Mantra jaap
• Sphatik (crystal) beads – clear stone/crystal beads
• Simple wooden beads – various types of wood
• Seeds or small stone beads – as long as they are ahimsak (non‑violent)

From a Jain point of view:

• The material is not spiritually important.
• The main thing is bhav (pure intention), shuddh upayog, and regular jaap.
• Materials like bone, leather, etc. are avoided because they go against ahimsa.

So, a mala can be made of sandalwood, crystal, wood, or seeds—but in Jainism, what really matters is how you use it, not what it is made from.

You can read more about the Jain Navkar mala (Navkarwali) here: