Unless specified as solid brass or solid copper, the chain offered has had an oxidized finish applied

over a metal substrate (either brass or steel). "Antique bronze" does not imply that the chain

is old; it's an indication of the finish color.

Chain specified as "vintage" is, indeed, old. Supplies of vintage chain are limited, but we are

always on the lookout for new and fun varieties. Most of the vintage chain we find was produced

years ago but was never used--it usually comes from stock of closed factories.

If you're not experienced in sizing chain for your rosaries, a good way to start is with

the link width (width is the first number given below the chain titles, length is the second).

Width needs to be watched more closely than length--a 4mm wide link may overpower

a 6mm bead rosary, but a 2.5mm wide by 4mm long link would look great. You should also

consider the gauge of the wire you're using to make your bead loops--18g wire may likely be too heavy

for very small links. If you're not sure, send us a note and we'll be more than happy to help you.

We've tried to find colors in each size for you to suit your pre-oxidized crucifixes and centers (like

those found at Rosary Workshop, Catholic Rosary Parts and Gardens of Grace), polished finish

silicon bronze parts without antiquing (like those found at Bills Beads), and solid copper or brass parts.

The best match with our solid silicon bronze wire are the "premium" chains (no green undertone);

with our phosphor bronze wire the solid ginger brasses and antique copper.

Most 5 decade rosaries are handily accomplished with 10 to 12 inches of chain.

These photos are highly magnified to show detail.