St. Christopher Sterling Silver Religious Medal Pendant
Jewelry - Religious Medal / Pendant · Unknown manufacturer; likely an American or Italian devotional jewelry firm such as Bliss, Creed, or McVan. These companies specialize in high-quality catholic sacramentals and religious articles.
Pattern: Saint Christopher 'Behold St Christopher and Go Your Way in Safety' Traditional Iconography
Type
Jewelry - Religious Medal / Pendant
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; likely an American or Italian devotional jewelry firm such as Bliss, Creed, or McVan. These companies specialize in high-quality catholic sacramentals and religious articles.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper alloy. Solid construction with no base metal visible.
Dimensions
Standard medium size: approximately 18mm-22mm in height (excluding bail) and 12mm-15mm in width. Weight is estimated at approximately 2.0 to 4.5 grams.
Description
An oval-shaped sterling silver devotional medal depicting Saint Christopher, the patron saint of travelers. The central relief shows the bearded saint leaning on a staff while carrying a small child on his shoulder, symbolizing the Christ Child. The text 'Saint Christopher Protect Us' is often embossed along the perimeter. It is a traditional token of protection often gifted to travelers, drivers, and athletes.
Key Features
Classic oval form; relief depiction of the 'Christ-bearer' legend; oxidized recesses; sterling silver purity mark; jump ring for chain mounting.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper alloy. Solid construction with no base metal visible.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to highlight the low-relief details. The decoration features the classic image of St. Christopher carrying the Christ Child across a river. Topped with a beaded or plain raised border and a polished reverse side (unseen, likely flat).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'STERLING' or '.925' on the reverse side or on the jump ring. Some versions include a small maker's mark (symbol or initials). No visible hallmarks on the front face.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a prepared metal sheet using a heavy steel die. This process creates crisp, repeatable details. The jump ring is soldered to a small integral loop at the top of the oval.
Functional Features
Includes a top suspension loop and a separate jump ring for threading onto a neck chain or attaching to a charm bracelet.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable for jewelry; features a standard round jump ring attachment for hardware integration.
Craftsmanship Details
Quality die-striking evident in the legibility of the child's figure and the saint's staff. It is a commercially produced high-relief casting/strike rather than a hand-engraved one-of-a-kind piece.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of natural oxidation in the deep recesses and the characteristic softening of the relief edges suggest authentic silver rather than plated base metal. Final confirmation requires checking for the 'STERLING' mark on the reverse.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Italy. These two countries dominate the production of sterling silver Catholic medals globally using high-pressure die-striking techniques.
Era & Period
Modern Devotional / Late 20th Century. While based on medieval iconography, the specific die-cutting style and finish suggest mid-to-late 20th-century production (1960s-present).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970 - 2000. The wear on the high points and the patina suggest it has been handled and worn for several decades rather than being brand new.
Cultural Significance
Representing a long-standing tradition of 'sacramental jewelry,' these pieces serve as both a profession of faith and a protective charm. They are frequently found in cars, on luggage, or worn by soldiers and travelers.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows moderate surface wear on the high points (Christopher’s head and shoulder), consistent with skin contact. Light tarnish in the crevices (patina) which enhances the visual depth. The jump ring appears secure.
Value Estimate
$20.00 - $45.00 USD. Value is based primarily on silver weight and condition as these are common mass-produced items, though vintage pieces from noted makers can fetch a premium.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and mild soapy water. Use a silver polishing cloth on high points for contrast, but avoid liquid dips which can strip the beautiful 'antique' oxidation from the recessed details.
Similar Pieces
Medals by Wallace or Tiffany (usually heavier/higher price point) or pewter/aluminum versions (lighter, duller gray, no sterling stamp).
Interesting Facts
St. Christopher was removed from the official Roman Catholic Calendar of Saints in 1969 due to lack of historical evidence of his existence, yet he remains one of the most popular folk-piety figures in the world.