Rosary: Most Highly Favored Lady

The angel Gabriel from heaven came 
His wings as drifted snow his eyes as flame 
"All hail" said he "thou lowly maiden Mary, 
Most highly favored lady," Gloria! 

Another longstanding Atelier-Beads tradition is the creation of a special rosary honoring Christ's Mother.

This year's rosary represents a bit of a departure. As silver prices have inexplicably climbed, and as our pocketbooks have dwindled, it seemed almost too extravagant to render this year's version in silver. I have therefore chosen a lovely, mellow bronze for the crucifix and center medal. The crucifix is very Victorian, embossed with a subtle pattern of lilies. The center medal is a personal favorite, the "Ave Maria" center with crown.

To complement the new bronze fixtures, I raided my collection for the very last six vintage givre "cathedral" beads. These are quite old, with a subtlety and depth of color that is not found in newer versions. They're a swirling mixture of deep, regal, wine red and frosty clear glass with deep gold tops. Each Pater bead is set off by tiny vermeil caps and little freshwater seed pearls. The blue lace agate Ave beads coordinate and contrast beautifully, making a lovely, old-fashioned rosary of great delicacy.

As with all our Christmas rosaries, this rosary is one of a kind.