Miraculous Medal (Medal of the Immaculate Conception) Sterling Silver Pendant
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant) · Unknown manufacturer, likely a specialized Catholic devotional jewelry maker such as Creed, HMH, or Bliss. These items are mass-produced by workshops dedicated to sacramental objects.
Pattern: Traditional 'Miraculous Medal' reverse design, originally designed by St. Catherine Labouré in 1830.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely a specialized Catholic devotional jewelry maker such as Creed, HMH, or Bliss. These items are mass-produced by workshops dedicated to sacramental objects.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or a silver-plated base metal (nickel silver). The yellowish tint suggests 'Vermeil' (gold over silver) that has worn down or poor lighting reflecting off a silver surface.
Dimensions
Small devotional size; approximately 20mm in height (excluding bale) and 12mm in width. Estimated weight is 1.5 to 3.0 grams.
Description
This is the reverse side of the Miraculous Medal, a significant Catholic sacramental. It features a large 'M' supporting a cross on a bar, representing Mary at the foot of the Cross. Below are the Sacred Heart of Jesus (crowned with thorns) and the Immaculate Heart of Mary (pierced by a sword), all encircled by twelve stars.
Key Features
The Marian monogram cross, the dual hearts of Jesus and Mary, and the elliptical (oval) shape which is standard for this specific medal.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or a silver-plated base metal (nickel silver). The yellowish tint suggests 'Vermeil' (gold over silver) that has worn down or poor lighting reflecting off a silver surface.
Finish & Decoration
Machine-stamped with a matte or sandblasted background and polished raised elements. Features the Marian Cross (the letter 'M' surmounted by a cross) and twelve stars representing the Apostles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'STERLING' or '925' on the reverse bottom or the jump ring. Given the visible reverse, marks may be located on the very bottom edge or are currently obscured by grime/tarnish.
Construction Details
Die-struck or machine-stamped from a flat sheet of metal. Includes an integrated suspension loop (bale) with a secondary jump ring attached.
Functional Features
Suspension loop for wear on a neck chain; the reverse symbolizes the Catholic Church and Mary's role in salvation.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Pendant loop only). The loop appears cast or stamped as part of the main body of the medal.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial jewelry grade. The die-striking is well-centered, though it lacks the hand-chased depth of 19th-century examples.
Authentication Indicators
Design elements are iconographically correct. To confirm silver content, one must look for the 'Sterling' stamp which is typically found on the bottom edge of this specific layout.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Italy, the two primary hubs for high-quality Catholic devotional silver jewelry.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern era (Late 20th Century to present). The design is a faithful reproduction of the 1830 original but executed with modern industrial stamping techniques.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–2010 based on the crispness of the machine stamping and the style of the jump ring.
Cultural Significance
Represents a major milestone in Catholic Marian devotion; millions of these medals are worn worldwide as a sign of faith and a plea for 'graces' or protection.
Condition Notes
Good condition but shows heavy surface tarnish and dirt accumulation. The metal appears to have some surface wear (softening of the stars). Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
$15 – $45 USD depending on confirmation of silver content and weight. Base metal versions are usually worth less than $5.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush to remove dirt in the recesses. Polish with a silver ज्वेलरी cloth. Avoid liquid dips which can strip the intentional matte finish of the background.
Similar Pieces
Benedictine Medals, Scapular Medals, or Miraculous Medals in aluminum (common for give-aways) or solid 14k gold (luxury versions).
Interesting Facts
The design was claimed to be revealed in a vision to Saint Catherine Labouré in Paris. It is one of the most widely produced religious medals in the world.