The Rosary is one of the most-well known and widely recognized symbols of Catholicism, where the word  'Rosary' means a chain of roses, and the roses are prayers.  Tradition holds that the Blessed Virgin Mary first used it as a prayer tool.  In the 13th century she appeared before St Dominic (the founder of the Dominican order), gave him a Rosary, and urged Christians to chant the Hail Mary, Our Father, and Glory Be prayers instead of the Psalms.  Thus, Rosary beads provide a physical method of keeping count of the number of prayers, thereby freeing the mind for contemplation.

Made in Italy, this pretty 1970's vintage Rosary is a souvenir of the Vatican (RICORDO GROTTE VATICANE as it says on the box).  It comprises white glass pearls on a silver chain, and features the Blessed Virgin Mary on the silver centerpiece, and a silver crucifix at the end.  In St Matthew's Gospel the pearl - pure and without imperfections - is linked to the Kingdom of Heaven.  

Perfect gift to mark religious occasions such as Christening, First Communion or Confirmation, and certain to be treasured for a lifetime. 

White pearl Rosary beads with silver.

6mm white glass pearls.

Silver cable chain.

Necklace length 74 cm.

Measures 54 cm from bottom of crucifix to top half of Rosary.

Silver Blessed Virgin Mary centerpiece.

Silver crucifix (58 mm x 35 mm).

Souvenir of the Vatican.

Very good condition.

Comes with original box.