Rosary with White Natural Stone Beads and Crucifix - c. 1920-1940

Old Catholic rosary from the first half of the 20th century, likely dating from the interwar period. The rosary is composed of elongated white natural stone beads with subtle beige to greyish veining and natural variation in shape and pattern.

The beads feel hard and cool and show small differences from one another that are consistent with cut natural stone. The exact mineral has not been determined, but the material has the characteristics of a white quartz-like stone, possibly milky quartz. Each bead is individually connected with metal wire eyes.

The crucifix has a striking composite construction. A metal corpus of Christ is attached to the cream-colored cross, with metal finishes on the ends of the cross arms. On the reverse side, the attachment points of the corpus are visible and the personal inscription "M.V.W." is applied.

The shield-shaped metal centerpiece is provided on both sides with a religious representation in relief. The metal parts and connections have developed a dark natural patina due to age.

Details:

• Object: Catholic rosary
• Date: ca. 1920-1940
• Period: interwar / first half of the 20th century
• Beads: white natural stone, presumably quartz-like
• Possible mineral: milky quartz
• Bead color: milky white with beige to greyish veining
• Bead shape: elongated oval, with natural variation between them
• Construction: beads individually connected with metal wire eyes
• Crucifix: composed of cream-colored material and metal parts
• Corpus: metal
• Cross dimensions: ca. 3.7 × 2.2 cm
• Centerpiece: shield-shaped metal medallion with religious relief representations
• Inscription on back of cross: "M.V.W."
• Origin: probably continental Europe
• Religion: Roman Catholic

Condition:
Good vintage condition with signs of age and use. The metal parts have a clear natural patina and local oxidation. The natural stone beads show variation in color, shape, and veining, as well as slight signs of use. The center medallion and crucifix show wear consistent with age and use. The personal inscription "M.V.W." is still visible on the back of the cross. See the photos for a complete picture of the condition.