How do you know if a rosary is antique?

To know if a rosary is antique, check its beads. The beads on modern rosaries are largely made of wood, glass or inexpensive plastic, and they’re likely linked by a chain or a cord. Old rosary beads were frequently strung on silk or another type of thread. 

Hundreds of years ago, some rosaries, such as those produced during the 16th century for example, were made by goldsmiths. The era of mass production for these prayer beads began to take shape during the 15th century, and this development allowed for rosaries to be made of materials such as lead, glass, bone and wood. Online resources suggest that if the rosary’s crucifix and center medal are not made of the same material, it’s likely that a component of your rosary has been replaced over the years.

In order to properly determine the age of your rosary, experts recommend working with an antiques dealer or other type of professional in the collectibles realm.

Over time, vintage and antique religious artifacts have become popular with collectors and the devout alike, and religious art has been used to express devotion across a range of media. Find rosaries today on 1stDibs.