A masterpiece of devotion and craftsmanship, this Antique Mother of Pearl & Sterling Silver Rosary is a highly exceptional collector’s piece composed entirely of genuine antique and vintage elements. Weighing an imposing 122 grams and measuring 69 cm (27.2 inches) in length, this rosary is not only spiritually significant—but historically remarkable.
Offered from a private collection, this unique creation combines rare 19th and early 20th century medals, vintage Mother of Pearl beads from the 1920s, and a stunning 19th-century crucifix—all meticulously assembled by hand.
Available exclusively at Swan Collection:
👉 https://swancollection.com/products/antique-mop-sterling-silver-highly-57914
TL;DR – Why This Rosary Is Truly Exceptional
- Genuine antique and vintage components (19th–early 20th century)
- Vintage 1920s Mother of Pearl beads (New Old Stock)
- Over 65 grams (2.1 troy ounces) of sterling silver
- Rare antique sterling silver medals in pristine condition
- Large 19th-century Mother of Pearl & sterling crucifix
- Heavy 122-gram weight and imposing 69 cm length
- Entirely handcrafted and uniquely assembled
No replicas. No reproductions. One-of-a-kind.
A Rosary Rooted in History
All antique and vintage rosaries offered from this private collection are:
- Genuine antiques (over 100 years old), or
- Authentic vintage pieces (30–100 years old)
Each remains in perfect, usable condition—carefully preserved and respectfully restored when needed.
This particular rosary stands apart due to its rare combination of large vintage beads, antique medals, and sterling silver construction—assembled into a harmonious and devotional whole.
Vintage Mother of Pearl Beads (1920s New Old Stock)
The beads are exceptional in both size and quality:
- Ave beads: 8.5 mm round Mother of Pearl
- Pater beads: 10.5 mm Mother of Pearl
- Origin: 1920s New Old Stock from a private collection
- Newly capped with sterling silver bead caps
Mother of Pearl has long symbolized purity and devotion in Catholic tradition. These beads display beautiful luster and smoothness that only vintage nacre develops over time.
Their larger size gives this rosary a substantial and deeply tactile presence during prayer.
Sterling Silver Construction – Heavy and Imposing
Every metal component in this rosary is solid sterling silver.
- Over 65 grams (2.1 troy ounces) of sterling silver
- Mounted using sturdy sterling silver wire
- Chain segments sourced from a handmade 1940s chain
- Total rosary weight: 122 grams
The weight alone reflects the quality and substance of this devotional object.
Rare Antique Medals (Early 20th Century & Earlier)
One of the most remarkable aspects of this rosary is its collection of antique medals:
- All original
- All sterling silver
- Dating from the early 20th century
- First Communion medal featuring a gold chalice
- Likely dating from the late 19th century
- Preserved in pristine condition
Such medals are increasingly difficult to source in untouched condition. Their inclusion significantly elevates both the devotional and collectible value of this rosary.
19th Century Mother of Pearl & Sterling Crucifix
The rosary concludes with a striking 19th-century crucifix crafted in:
- Mother of Pearl
- Sterling silver
It remains in excellent, near-mint condition—an extraordinary survival for a devotional item of this age.
The crucifix is large, elegant, and visually commanding—perfectly proportioned to the rosary’s substantial size and weight.
Measurements & Specifications
- Total Length: 69 cm (27.2 inches)
- Total Weight: 122 grams
- Sterling Silver Content: 65+ grams (2.1 troy ounces)
- Ave Beads: 8.5 mm MOP
- Pater Beads: 10.5 mm MOP
- Crucifix: 19th century MOP & sterling
This is not a small devotional piece—it is an imposing heirloom-quality rosary.
Why This Rosary Is a Collector’s Treasure
This piece stands apart for several reasons:
1. Exceptional Bead Quality
Large, luminous, vintage Mother of Pearl beads rarely survive in such pristine condition.
2. Genuine Antique Medals
Original sterling silver medals of great rarity, not modern reproductions.
3. Substantial Silver Content
More than 65 grams of sterling silver—a rarity in modern rosaries.
4. Imposing Size and Weight
Designed to be both devotional and visually impressive.
5. Handcrafted Assembly
Carefully composed and assembled by hand, honoring each historical element.
For Devotion or Collection
This rosary is ideal for:
- Serious antique rosary collectors
- Devout Catholics seeking a historic prayer companion
- Heirloom investment pieces
- Unique First Communion or family legacy gifts
- Ecclesiastical art collectors
It remains fully usable for prayer while possessing undeniable museum-worthy presence.
Final Thoughts: A Devotional Heirloom of Rare Character
The Antique Mother of Pearl & Sterling Silver Rosary is more than a religious object—it is a convergence of history, craftsmanship, and faith. With 19th-century elements, rare sterling medals, and imposing dimensions, it is truly unique in all respects.
Opportunities to acquire such complete and well-preserved examples grow increasingly rare.
View the full listing at Swan Collection:
👉 https://swancollection.com/products/antique-mop-sterling-silver-highly-57914
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this rosary fully antique?
Yes. All medals and the crucifix date from the 19th or early 20th century. The beads are vintage 1920s New Old Stock.
Is the sterling silver authentic?
Yes. All metal components are sterling silver, totaling over 65 grams.
Can this rosary still be used for prayer?
Absolutely. It remains in excellent, usable condition.
Is this a reproduction?
No. All components are genuine antique or vintage pieces from a private collection.
Why is the weight significant?
At 122 grams, this rosary reflects exceptional material quality and durability—far heavier than most modern rosaries.