Tingshas are cymbals used as ritual tools in Tibetan Buddhist prayers and ceremonies. Tied to the two ends of a cord, they produce a pure, high-pitched sound when struck. Uniquely, the tone that emanates from them is an extremely long one. The name “tingsha” is derived from two syllables in Tibetan – “ting” is the sound produced by the metal and “sha” means “hanging”.

Tingshas were traditionally handcrafted, using the Tibetan sand-casting technique. Artisans used fine-grained, wet sand to create two moulds which they baked repeatedly over charcoal. Molten bell-metal, made of a tin and copper alloy would be poured into the moulds once they were ready. Finally, the artisan would hammer around the thick periphery of the tingshas, ensuring that each pair had an identical pitch. From selecting pure raw materials to skillful tuning, the ancient process of making tingshas was a devoted and painstaking endeavor. Modern techniques have considerably lowered the production complexities of tingshas.

Tingshas are used during specific rituals such as those in which food offerings or guidance prayers are made to “hungry ghosts.” This derives from the Hindu tradition of ancestor worship. The cymbals are also used for meditation. Their sound is said to cleanse the spirit, clearing the mind of all thoughts during meditation and paving the way for a post-meditation state of great mental clarity.

Solid Brass 2.5" diameter; sold with cases in assorted colors

Welcome to Shipping

To abide with the Shelter-in-Place voluntary restrictions EarthTones customer pick-up and in store shopping is limited to pre-ordered and pre-paid items including product, services, gift card and certificates.  Credits, refunds and exchanges are handled with prior arrangements. 

Processing time may vary. Please allow 3-5 days to fulfill an order and shipping depending on region.

To avoid shipping charges you can elect a curbside pickup or drop off. Pick-up is arranged at 1319 Park Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446 at pre-arranged schedule. Drop off is offered throughout No. County San Luis Obispo in a 15 mile radius of the shop's physical address. Drop off will include packaging and receipt information. Some products are sensitive to heat and cold and may attract unwanted attention of people or animals. Please call to plan a pick-up.

Giftt items sent to third parties can be shipped or third party deliver similar to above. Gift wrapping is also available upon request.