My Nanny's rosary are also linked together by metal loops. I actually keep them in a box with my cat Casey's (RB 2002)ashes. I wear a gold cross around my neck right now that I never take off. I just don't if I want to restring them and wear them. I sort of like them in their original condition. BTW, I also have her prayer book that she used to take to church with her EVERY Sunday, along with me .