CATHOLICS are outraged after discovering rosary beads - sacred objects used in prayer - are being flaunted as a new fashion statement.

The string of beads with a crucifix are now as likely to be found in some jewellery stores as they are in a church, with fashion franchise Diva selling three styles of a rosary necklace with a silver cross pendant for $14.99 each.

Catholic Women's League Australia national president Madge Fahy said it was inappropriate for teenagers to wear the rosary as jewellery.

"It is totally disrespectful to the religious beliefs of Catholics," she said.

"I believe it's an abuse of our religious object.

"Rosary beads are solely used for prayer. They are not a fashion item."

A spokesman for the Adelaide Archdiocese said wearing rosary beads and crucifixes purely as fashion accessories could trivialise their religious significance.

"It might be too much to expect that those wearing these items as fashion statements might consider their deeper meaning, but one could be outrageously optimistic," he said.

However, he said the church hoped fashion wearers might have a spiritual awakening as a result of wearing the beads.

Variations of the rosary bead necklaces are being sold by fashion chain Sportsgirl for $19.95.

Celebrities such as Madonna, David Beckham and Britney Spears have all sported rosaries, contributing to the beads' recent surge in popularity.

In pop star Lady Gaga's latest film clip she is seen dressed in a red leather nun's habit while lying on a bed and swallowing a set of black rosary beads.

Rosary beads are usually given as a gift for Catholic ceremonies such as confirmation or communion and are traditionally used in prayer. But 17-year-old Rachael Parry bought them for fashion reasons.

The Golden Grove teenager has several rosary bead necklaces and bracelets, and wears them because they're "trendy".

"I wear them because they look good," she said.

"I think people are wearing them because it's part of the fashion, not really for religious reasons.

"People from all different races and groups are wearing them - they're just cool."

Diva manager Lauren McKay, 21, said the chain's Rundle Mall store had sold out of rosary beads in just a week and demand was still high.

"We have a huge interest in them. They are really popular for all ages," she said.

Ms McKay said she was aware some devout Catholics might find the trend offensive, but it was all just a bit of fashion fun.

"Were not trying to offend anyone - we're just trying to suit every customer's needs," she said.

Briana Domjen