The Rosary Collector's Guide

Presents a brief history of rosaries, discusses how to determine the approximate age, and shows different beads, center medals, and crucifixes used.

With 240 color photos and engaging text, this is the first book devoted to collecting rosaries. Hundreds of examples and informative text enables antique lovers, historians, and collectors of religious artifacts to identify variations of rosaries, and their crosses, crucifixes, and religious medals, determining their age and place of origin. It contains historical insights and descriptions, explaining materials used and legends associated with various rosaries. Background information on rosary makers, answers to frequently asked questions, and a glossary to define related terms are also included. With the information enclosed, readers searching brick and mortar stores or online will be able to distinguish between genuine antiques, reproductions, and rosaries that have been altered. The color photographs and concise descriptions identify old and new rosaries in detail. From the boxwood rosary owned by England's King Henry VIII to the newest Mysteries of Light Rosary developed by Pope John Paul II, this volume spans the ages and brings new understanding of both the rosary's beauty and its place in history.