The DD 1893 Catholic Rosary in Coral & Silver is a rare, museum-worthy devotional piece crafted from ancient Mediterranean red coral and sterling silver, preserved in pristine condition for over 130 years. Accompanied by an original Art Nouveau sterling silver mesh purse and a St. Martin medal dated June 1st, 1893, this rosary is both a sacred instrument of prayer and a collector’s treasure.
TL;DR – Why This 1893 Coral Rosary Is Exceptionally Rare
- Genuine 1893 antique rosary (over 130 years old)
- Handcrafted Mediterranean red coral beads
- Sterling silver chain and rare reliquary cross
- Original Art Nouveau sterling silver mesh purse
- St. Martin medal dated June 1st, 1893
- Pristine condition and fully usable
A True Antique from 1893 – Faith Preserved Through Time
This rosary is not a reproduction. It is a genuine antique, dated June 1st, 1893, placing it firmly in the late 19th century—an era rich in devotional craftsmanship and sacred artistry.
All antique rosaries offered from Swan Collection come from a private collection and are either:
- Over 100 years old (antiques), or
- Between 30–100 years old (vintage)
This particular piece surpasses 130 years of history while remaining in remarkable, usable condition.
Mediterranean Red Coral: Sacred Beauty and Rarity
The Ave Maria beads measure approximately 4.5 mm, faceted and handcrafted from top-quality ancient Mediterranean red coral. The Pater Noster beads are slightly larger at 6.5 mm, made from the same rare coral.
Each bead is separated by a sterling silver chain, enhancing both durability and elegance.
Red Mediterranean coral from the 19th century is highly sought after due to:
- Its deep, natural hue
- Its rarity in modern markets
- Its historical association with Catholic devotional objects
The quality and preservation of these coral beads are exceptional.
Sterling Reliquary Cross – Rare and Beautiful
The rosary features a sterling silver reliquary cross, measuring 29 mm x 17 mm.
Its design reflects late 19th-century ecclesiastical craftsmanship, balancing simplicity with refined detail. Crosses of this type are increasingly rare—especially when paired with original coral beads and intact chainwork.
The Art Nouveau Sterling Mesh Purse – A Collector’s Dream
What truly elevates this piece is the inclusion of its original Art Nouveau sterling silver mesh pouch.
Notable details:
- Stamped with the French sterling hallmark of the boar (visible on the sides)
- Authentic Art Nouveau design
- Weighs 23 grams
- In pristine condition
Attached to the purse is a sterling silver medal depicting St. Martin of Tours, shown on horseback splitting his mantle with his sword to share it with a poor man—a powerful symbol of charity and compassion.
The medal is dated June 1st, 1893, confirming its age and historical authenticity.
Finding a rosary with its original sterling mesh purse—especially one in this condition—is extraordinarily rare.
Dimensions & Specifications
| Detail | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Total rosary length | 31 cm / 20.5 inches |
| Weight of rosary | 13 grams |
| Mesh purse weight | 23 grams |
| Ave beads | 4.5 mm faceted coral |
| Pater beads | 6.5 mm coral |
| Cross size | 29 mm x 17 mm |
Note: This rosary is not designed to go over the head.
Condition: Remarkably Preserved
Despite being over 130 years old, this rosary and purse remain in pristine condition.
- No visible structural damage
- Coral beads intact
- Sterling chainwork preserved
- Mesh purse fully functional
It remains fully usable as a devotional item or can be preserved as a historical collectible.
Why This Rosary Is So Valuable
This is not simply jewelry. It is:
- A 19th-century devotional artifact
- A rare example of Mediterranean coral craftsmanship
- An Art Nouveau sterling silver collectible
- A piece of Catholic heritage
Collectors, historians, and devoted Catholics alike understand how rare it is to find such a complete, documented, and beautifully preserved set.
Ideal For
- Antique rosary collectors
- Catholic devotional collectors
- Art Nouveau enthusiasts
- Heirloom gifts
- Sacred personal prayer use
Its value lies in both spiritual meaning and historical rarity.
Final Thoughts: A Sacred Treasure from 1893
The DD 1893 Catholic Rosary in Coral & Silver is an extraordinary blend of faith, artistry, and history. With its ancient Mediterranean coral beads, sterling silver reliquary cross, and original Art Nouveau mesh purse featuring the St. Martin medal, this piece stands as a testament to 19th-century devotional craftsmanship.
Very few items survive over a century in such immaculate condition.
This is more than an antique.
It is a legacy.
FAQs – DD 1893 Coral & Silver Rosary
Is this rosary truly from 1893?
Yes. The accompanying sterling medal is dated June 1st, 1893, confirming its historical origin.
Are the coral beads genuine?
Yes. The beads are authentic Mediterranean red coral, handcrafted and over 130 years old.
Can the rosary still be used?
Absolutely. It is in pristine, fully usable condition.
What makes the mesh purse special?
It is an original Art Nouveau sterling silver mesh pouch stamped with the French boar hallmark—rare and highly collectible.
Is this considered an antique?
Yes. At over 130 years old, it qualifies as a genuine antique.