The Ghunsi Mala is a traditional metallic chain worn by members of the Santhal tribe. Known for its understated elegance and its symbolic meaning, this does not appear to be gaudy to any other tribal ornaments. With a plain plated design, it shows that beauty and practicality were given an equal standing for the person, as with most of the Santhal people's adornments. Creating them with metal gives their body the Ghunsi Mala with a great series of interlinked plates that form a smooth, flexible chain. The simple style enables it to pair with other ornaments or match minimalist jewellery alone as a quiet statement of style and beauty.
Functional locking mechanism installed at the end of the chain guarantees that it is unsuccessfully opened once fastened around neck or wrist for the wearer's comfort. The Ghunsi Mala is not only for use in daily lives. It also accompanies a Santhal to community gatherings and rituals. Such chains do carry ceremonial adornment value for the Santhals, in addition to evocative significance and the symbolic weight of culture. Inheritance from one generation to another is often found with this jewellery: personal artifact but historical as well. While no tribal ornament may be elaborate, the Ghunsi Mala plays its part in an attire of Santhals dignified, continuance, and belonging..