Relics are classified under two headings: real (first-class or primary) and indirect (second-class or secondary).
- Primary relics refer to parts of the physical remains of saints and blesseds, usually their bones. Most churches possess bone fragments, from which relics are produced.
- Relics consisting of pieces of a saint’s clothing, linens or objects, or those that have been in contact with the body, fall into the category of secondary relics.
