Before a singing bowl leaves Nepal, it needs to match the order it was selected for. At Healing Singing Bowls, our team checks the finished bowl's condition, form, surface finish and sound, then verifies the size or musical-note requirements that apply to the order. We carry out these checks for our own HSB ranges and for the artisan collections we distribute.
This page explains what we check, how note selection works and how to read the approximate weights shown in our catalogue.
What we check
| Control | What it means for your order |
|---|---|
| Condition and finish | We inspect the bowl's overall condition, shape and requested surface finish. |
| Sound | We listen to the finished bowl. A precise note is measured when the order includes selection by musical note. |
| Size | For size-based orders, we check that the bowl falls within the selected diameter band. |
| Weight | Catalogue tables describe approximate average weights. Individual handmade bowls can vary. |
| Order requirements | Selection follows the requested collection, size or note and any agreed finish or customisation. |
Selection before finishing, verification afterwards
Many HSB bowls are held before their final patina, decoration or personalised design is applied. Where this production route applies, selection begins with the requested size or musical note, followed by the agreed finishing work. The finished bowl is then checked again before export preparation. For note-specific orders, the final frequency is verified after the finishing stages.
Handmade differences in shape, hammer marks and resonance remain part of the instrument. A patina or engraved design is a visual finish; it does not automatically improve the sound. See our visual guide to how HSB singing bowls are made for the production stages.
How we check musical notes and frequencies
For a note-specific order, HSB selects the bowl by its fundamental frequency. The higher partials in its sound are not used to assign the requested note. Our standard reference is A4 = 440 Hz; selection using A4 = 432 Hz can be arranged on request.
Our acceptance rule is a deviation of strictly less than 3% from the target fundamental frequency. This describes a frequency-selection tolerance, not a general percentage score for the bowl's quality, weight or dimensions.
Deviation (%) = absolute difference between measured and target frequency ÷ target frequency × 100.
For a target of 131 Hz, a measurement of 132 Hz differs by approximately 0.76% and meets this rule. A measurement of 138 Hz differs by approximately 5.34% and does not. We prefer a bowl closer to the target whenever one is available.
We use frequency tools such as Soundcorset, Spectroid and dedicated meters, and regularly compare their readings for consistency. A video showing the selected bowl and its measured frequency can be provided on request. Please tell us before selection if you need to complete an existing set or use a particular reference frequency.
Explore our singing bowls selected by note and frequency for the available notes and octaves.
Size bands and approximate average weights
A bowl ordered in the 18 cm size band measures from 18.0 to 18.9 cm. It is not supplied below the ordered size. Size selection and musical-note selection are different services: a bowl purchased by diameter alone is not automatically assigned a particular note.
The weights shown in our size tables are approximate averages based on measured bowls of the relevant collection and size. They help describe the range and, where applicable, provide the reference for the displayed size-based price. They are not a promise that every handmade bowl weighs exactly the listed number of grams. Two bowls of the same diameter can also have different fundamental frequencies.
HSB ranges and partner artisan collections
HSB manufactures its own ranges and also distributes bowls made by specialist artisans, including Santa Ratna Shakya, Kalyan Tamrakar and Sajan Thapaliya. The original maker remains identified on the collection and brand pages.
Our order checks also apply to these partner collections. We check the requested size, condition and sound, and verify the musical note when note selection is part of the order. This does not mean that all partner bowls use HSB's production process or that every collection offers every note and finish.
Learn more about HSB's workshops and production network in Kathmandu Valley.
Photos, videos and preparation for export
For note-sensitive or larger orders, quality-control photos or videos can help you review the selection with our team. A recorded frequency check and a live selection session are different services; live video selection must be arranged separately.
After checking, approved products are protected and packed for shipment. For the next steps, read how to place and prepare an HSB order and our shipping, delivery and returns information. Businesses planning a larger purchase can consult our wholesale singing bowl service.
Frequently asked questions
Does every bowl come with a precise musical note?
No. Musical-note selection applies when it is included in the order. A bowl sold by size alone is checked against its size band, but that does not guarantee a specific note.
Will my bowl weigh exactly what the size table shows?
No. The table gives an approximate average. Weight varies between individual handmade bowls, including bowls within the same size band.
Does “less than 3%” mean an exact frequency?
No. It is the maximum permitted deviation under HSB's frequency-selection rule. Share any more specific musical requirement before ordering so that we can confirm what is available.
Can I ask to see the bowl and its measured frequency?
Yes. A quality-control video can be provided on request. Arrange any live video selection separately with our team.
Are partner-made bowls checked too?
Yes. HSB checks the order requirements for both its own ranges and the partner artisan collections it distributes, while keeping the maker and collection clearly identified.