Vintage Catholic Saint Benedict Rosary with Molded Rose Beads and Crucifix
Decorative Object / Jewelry (Religious Rosary Beads) · Unmarked commercial manufacturer (likely Italian or European devotional metalworks maker)
Pattern: Saint Benedict Jubilee Medal Devotional Rosary featuring molded rosebud Ave Maria beads
Type
Decorative Object / Jewelry (Religious Rosary Beads)
Maker
Unmarked commercial manufacturer (likely Italian or European devotional metalworks maker)
Material
Silver-plated base metal / Oxidized silver alloy with metal chain links and jump rings
Dimensions
Total length approximately 45-55 cm (18-22 inches); estimated total weight 40-65 grams
Description
A classic Catholic five-decade rosary featuring intricately sculpted rosebud-form Hail Mary beads and distinct Saint Benedict Jubilee medals as Our Father beads. The metalwork displays a deep oxidized silver tone, accentuating the high-relief details of the floral motif and the sacred inscriptions on the crucifix and central medal. Designed for personal devotion and tactile prayer.
Key Features
Molded rose-shaped beads, Saint Benedict Jubilee medals as Pater dividers, and a simple flat-armed cross with a Benedictine medal inlay.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal / Oxidized silver alloy with metal chain links and jump rings
Finish & Decoration
Antiqued/oxidized silver finish with relief-molded floral rose texture on beads and embossed Saint Benedict iconography on medals
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed Latin text on Benedictine medals ('C S P B', 'C S M D', 'V R S N S M V - S M Q L I V B'); no purity hallmarks visible
Construction Details
Machine-cast hollow or solid metal rose beads strung with hand- or machine-looped wire chain links
Functional Features
5-decade counting structure, central oval medal junction, five medal-style Pater beads, and hanging crucifix
Handle & Grip Details
Textured spherical rose beads designed for tactile counting during prayer
Craftsmanship Details
Die-cast metal components linked together with standard metal wirework; dark patina artificially applied to highlight relief detailing.
Authentication Indicators
Exhibits standard commercial die-casting techniques for Catholic devotional items; absence of precious metal hallmarks confirms silver-plated alloy.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy (e.g., Loreto or Rome workshops specializing in Catholic devotional articles)
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (c. 1980s-present)
Age Estimate
Estimated circa 1990-2015 based on construction, wear, and metal oxidation style
Cultural Significance
Serves as a prominent symbol of Catholic faith, prayer, and spiritual protection, combining Marian devotion (represented by roses) with Benedictine spirituality.
Condition Notes
Good condition with minor surface rubbing, typical aged patina, and light tarnish in crevices. Wire links remain intact.
Value Estimate
Estimated retail/resale value range $15 - $35 USD based on material composition and condition.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe gently with a soft micro-fiber cloth; avoid liquid chemical silver dips which can strip the intentional dark antiquing finish.
Similar Pieces
Standard wooden or glass decade rosaries, Sterling Silver (.925) Ghirelli or Creed rosaries, and traditional pewter devotional beads.
Interesting Facts
The Saint Benedict medal is one of the oldest and most venerated medals used by Christians, known as the 'devil-chasing medal' due to its exorcism prayers inscribed in Latin acronyms.