Miraculous Medal Vermeil Sterling Silver Pendant by Creed
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant) · Creed Rosary Company (founded 1946, North Attleboro, Massachusetts), a premier American maker of high-quality religious jewelry known for traditional Catholic iconography.
Pattern: Miraculous Medal (Medal of the Immaculate Conception), traditionally featuring the 'M' and Cross entwined with hearts on the reverse.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant)
Maker
Creed Rosary Company (founded 1946, North Attleboro, Massachusetts), a premier American maker of high-quality religious jewelry known for traditional Catholic iconography.
Material
Vermeil (Sterling Silver .925 base with a gold-plated finish). Total weight is estimated between 1.5 to 3 grams based on standard devotional sizes.
Dimensions
Standard 'Small/Medium' devotional size, approximately 15mm-18mm in diameter. Weight approximately 2.5 troy grams.
Description
A classic example of Catholic devotional art, this Miraculous Medal pendant is crafted from sterling silver with a rich gold vermeil finish. The reverse side displayed shows the Marian 'M' surmounted by a cross, surrounded by twelve stars representing the Apostles. Below the monogram, the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary are clearly visible in fine detail. This piece represents the intersection of faith and precision jewelry manufacturing.
Key Features
The entwined Cross and Monogram; 12-star perimeter; tiny heart icons at the base; the specific 'Germany' import mark on an American brand item.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Sterling Silver .925 base with a gold-plated finish). Total weight is estimated between 1.5 to 3 grams based on standard devotional sizes.
Finish & Decoration
Gold-washed or vermeil finish over a struck silver base. The reverse features a matte/sandblasted background with polished raised relief of the Marian Monogram, 12 stars, and the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'CREED' (maker), 'STERLING' (purity), and 'GERMANY' (origin of assembly/component). Note: Creed often utilized precision strike components from Germany during mid-century production.
Construction Details
Die-struck/Machine-stamped for high detail and durability. Includes a soldered jump ring and a tapered bail (the loop for the chain).
Functional Features
Single-sided bail for necklace attachment; round 'coin' form intended for daily wear and prayer.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated sterling silver bail, gold-plated to match the medal body. Shows light wear to the high points of the loop.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-striking provides sharp, legible lettering and symbols that do not wear down easily. The balance of the piece ensures it hangs vertically when worn.
Authentication Indicators
The 'CREED' maker's mark is synonymous with authentic sterling religious items; the crispness of the die-strike indicates a professional workshop rather than a cast reproduction.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed by Creed (USA) with components manufactured/struck in Germany, reflecting the post-WWII high-quality silver export market from West Germany.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Religious Revival (c. 1950-1970).
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. The specific 'CREED STERLING GERMANY' stamp is characteristic of mid-20th-century religious trade exports.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of protection and grace in the Catholic tradition; historically worn as a reminder of the 'Instruction of Mary' and as a protective sacramental.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The gold vermeil shows some light 'toning' or tarnish (darker spots), which is common as the silver underneath reacts. No significant scratches or dental damage.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD. Value is driven by the 'Creed' branding and the sterling silver base rather than the intrinsic gold value.
Care & Maintenance
Gently wipe with a soft silver cloth (like the Connoisseurs cloth pictured). Avoid chemical dips, as they will strip the thin gold 'vermeil' layer off the sterling silver base.
Similar Pieces
Chapel Sterling, McVan (MV), or Hayward medals. Creed is generally considered the 'gold standard' for these mid-century Catholic pieces compared to unnamed pewter or aluminum versions.
Interesting Facts
The design of this medal was based on the 1830 visions of St. Catherine Labouré in Paris. Creed is one of the few brands that collectors specifically seek out by name for vintage medals.