Disclosed herein is a method for making an item of jewelry. The method includes the steps of providing a chain comprising a plurality of links; providing at least one bead having an opening defined therethrough; providing a press having a support member, a hammer, and at least one pin; positioning the bead on the chain; resting the bead on the support member; positioning a first link on the at least one pin; and actuating the press, whereby the first link is widened. In a preferred embodiment the item of jewelry is a rosary.