Vermeil Sterling Silver Miraculous Medal (Pendant)
Jewelry (Religious Pendant) · Unknown manufacturer; likely an Italian or French Catholic religious goods maker. These medals are frequently produced by specialized liturgical silversmiths or devotional jewelry brands like Creed or McVan.
Pattern: Miraculous Medal (also known as the Medal of the Immaculate Conception); Reverse Side Design.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Pendant)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; likely an Italian or French Catholic religious goods maker. These medals are frequently produced by specialized liturgical silversmiths or devotional jewelry brands like Creed or McVan.
Material
Vermeil (Sterling Silver base with a thin layer of gold plating). Visible wear on the edges suggests a silver substrate underneath the gold gilding.
Dimensions
Standard 'Small/Medium' devotional size; approximately 1.5 cm to 2 cm in height excluding the bale. Estimated weight is 1.0 - 2.5 grams.
Description
A classic religious pendant in the Miraculous Medal tradition. The reverse side shown displays the symbolic 'M' intertwined with the bar of the Cross, resting above the two holy hearts. The twelve stars represent the Apostles and the crown of the woman from the Book of Revelation. The vermeil finish provides the appearance of solid gold while maintaining the value and durability of sterling silver.
Key Features
Twelve five-pointed stars, Sacred and Immaculate hearts, 'M' and Cross interlacing, oval form, gold-over-silver composition.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Sterling Silver base with a thin layer of gold plating). Visible wear on the edges suggests a silver substrate underneath the gold gilding.
Finish & Decoration
Satin gold finish with raised relief iconography. The decoration features the 'M' surmounted by a cross, the Sacred Heart of Jesus (crowned with thorns), and the Immaculate Heart of Mary (pierced by a sword), surrounded by twelve stars.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image, but usually found on the jump ring or the bottom edge of the oval. Likely stamped '925' or 'Sterling' along with a maker's registered trademark.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a metal plate to produce high-relief sharp details, then gilded (electroplated). The jump ring is soldered to the integral bale at the top.
Functional Features
Single integral bale with a separate jump ring for suspension on a neck chain or rosary.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Pendant form).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine die-struck with clean, legible details. The alignment of the stars is symmetrical, indicating a high-quality production mold typical of professional Italian silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The design follows the strict visionary requirements of Saint Catherine Labouré. Authentication of silver content requires locating the '925' stamp usually hidden on the jump ring.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy, the primary global hub for high-quality die-struck precious metal religious medals.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (late 20th to 21st century). While the design dates to 1830, the production style and sharpness suggest a modern commercial strike.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-Present. The crispness of the stars and the specific gold tone indicate a modern electroplating process.
Cultural Significance
One of the most widely produced religious silver items in history; it serves as a sign of devotion within the Catholic Church and is traditionally gifted for Communions, Confirmations, and as a protection amulet.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The gold plating (vermeil) shows slight thinning on the high points and outer rim, exposing the silver beneath. Light scratches to the satin field.
Value Estimate
$25 - $65 USD depending on weight and brand prestige. Resale value is largely based on the silver weight plus a premium for the vermeil finish.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive silver polishes which will strip the thin gold 'vermeil' layer. Use a soft damp cloth or a dedicated jewelry cloth with very light pressure. Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
Similar Pieces
Solid 14k gold versions (heavier, no silver wear), base metal brass gold-toned medals (lighter, magnetic, no hallmarks), or French antique silver versions (softer detail, different hallmark shapes).
Interesting Facts
The design originated from a vision of the Virgin Mary reported by Saint Catherine Labouré in 1830 in Paris. It was originally called the Medal of the Immaculate Conception but became known as the 'Miraculous Medal' due to the numerous wonders attributed to it.