An Incredible Civelli Rosary Worn Amost Beyond Recognition

This is a wonderful example of a 1950s Civelli rosary that has been so worn from repeated prayer that almost all detail has worn away. These rosaries are beautiful at whatever stage they are found in. Whether pristine and never used or prayed upon for over a half a century, they are one of the most unique rosaries produced in the 20th century. They were a special commemorative rosary for the Holy Year in 1950 and designed by the Italian sculptor Civelli. Several versions were produced, one with the Holy Year center and another with a Queen of Peace center with a soil from the Roman Catacombs in the reverse of the center. This one has had medals attached from sacred sites. The Civelli rosaries are made from "ivorine," a celluloid type plastic made to resemble ivory. Celluloid was quite popular as a faux ivory material, as real ivory has always been rare and expensive. I find this rosary quite fascinating- the extreme wear has really made it look more like real ivory.
Although this rosary is in my private collection as a rare example, you can find many wonderful antique rosaries on The Sacred Bead. I will be adding more as the holiday season approaches.