The rosary beads provide a physical method of keeping count of the number of Hail Marys said as the mysteries are contemplated. The fingers are moved along the beads as the prayers are recited. Early rosaries were strung on thread, often silk, but modern ones are more often made as a series of chain-linked beads. These gold beads are luxurious to the touch and comprise fifteen decades, with a Madonna and crucifix. The chain is a diamond-cut belcher link, and will stand up to regular handling.
