Catholic gold: Precious metal and the papacy

Catholic gold: Precious metal and the papacy

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Whoever becomes the new pope, one thing is certain: he'll wear a new papal ring -- a unique piece of jewelry that is cast for each pope.

Keep clicking for a look at some of the golden jewelry adornments worn by Catholic officials. Seen here is Pope Emeritus, then-Pope Benedict XVI, waving to the faithful as he leaves St Peter's Square at the end of his final general audience on February 27, 2013 in Vatican City, Vatican. His ring is known as The Fisherman's Ring, a reference to St. Peter who was a fisherman and church founder.

Secrets of the papal ring: Goldsmith details how one-of-a-kind adornment is crafted

Credit: Franco Origlia/Getty Images

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