St. Therese of Lisieux Devotional Pendant
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant) · Unknown manufacturer; likely a Catholic devotional goods supplier from Italy or the United States (such as Creed or McVan).
Pattern: Traditional Hagiographic Iconography of St. Therese of Lisieux (The Little Flower).
Type
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; likely a Catholic devotional goods supplier from Italy or the United States (such as Creed or McVan).
Material
Likely Silver-Plated Base Metal (pewter or zinc alloy) or Oxidized Sterling Silver; requires testing or hallmark verification on the reverse.
Dimensions
Approximately 20mm x 15mm (Small individual pendant size); estimated weight 2.0 - 4.0 grams.
Description
An oval religious medal depicting St. Therese of Lisieux, known as the 'Little Flower'. She is shown in her Carmelite habit, clutching a crucifix and a bouquet of roses, symbolizing her promise to 'let fall a shower of roses' from heaven. The piece has a raised border and sans-serif 'ST. THERESE' text on the left.
Key Features
Iconographic depiction of roses and crucifix; vertical sans-serif block lettering; oxidized recessed detailing; integrated circular bail.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-Plated Base Metal (pewter or zinc alloy) or Oxidized Sterling Silver; requires testing or hallmark verification on the reverse.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized/Antiqued finish with matte recessed areas to highlight the relief; features a die-struck image of the Saint holding a crucifix and roses.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible on front; typically found on the reverse as 'STERLING', 'ITALY', or a maker's initial.
Construction Details
Die-struck or machine-cast with an integrated suspension loop at the top for a jump ring and chain.
Functional Features
Perforated top bail (suspension loop) designed for attachment to a necklace chain or rosary.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Small suspension loop for mounting).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured for consistency; high-quality mold or die design showing clear facial features and individual rose petals.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the relief suggests a high-quality die-strike; lack of visible copper bleed suggests either solid metal or high-quality plating.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy or the United States, which dominate the production of Catholic sacramental medals.
Era & Period
Modern Devotional (Late 20th Century to Present); based on the clean typography and casting style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970 - Present; modern mass-production techniques are evident in the lettering and finish.
Cultural Significance
A staple of Catholic devotional life, representing the 'Little Way' philosophy of doing small things with great love.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition; minor surface wear on the high points of the relief; even oxidation/patina throughout.
Value Estimate
$5–$15 (Base metal/Silver-plate) or $25–$45 (Sterling Silver).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid harsh silver dips which will remove the intentional antiquing/oxidation from the recesses.
Similar Pieces
Miraculous Medals (St. Mary), St. Christopher medals (travelers), or St. Jude medals (lost causes).
Interesting Facts
St. Therese was canonized in 1925; medals like this are often given as Confirmation gifts or to those seeking intercession for illness.