Vermeil Sterling Silver Madonna and Child Religious Medal
Jewelry (Pendant/Medal) · Unknown manufacturer; likely a religious devotional jewelry specialist. Similar styles are frequently produced by firms like Creed, Bliss, or McVan in the US, or Italian workshops in Arezzo.
Pattern: Traditional Religious Devotional; Madonna and Child with Scepter
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Medal)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; likely a religious devotional jewelry specialist. Similar styles are frequently produced by firms like Creed, Bliss, or McVan in the US, or Italian workshops in Arezzo.
Material
Vermeil (Sterling Silver .925 base with gold plating). The warm yellow tone indicates a gold wash or heavy plate over a white metal core.
Dimensions
Approximately 20-25mm in diameter (roughly the size of a US Quarter). Estimated weight 3-5 grams.
Description
A sophisticated religious pendant featuring a classic bas-relief of the Madonna and Child. The figure is centered in a circular medallion, flanked by an ornate, textured border that catches the light through precision-cut geometric facets. The two-tone effect emphasizes the sacred figures against the brilliant gold-toned frame.
Key Features
Diamond-cut 'sunburst' border; Two-tone vermeil surface contrast; Scepter iconography (often representing Mary, Help of Christians or Queen of Heaven).
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Sterling Silver .925 base with gold plating). The warm yellow tone indicates a gold wash or heavy plate over a white metal core.
Finish & Decoration
Bicolor finish with a high-polish engine-turned (guilloche style) sunburst/diamond-cut border and a matte/satin finish central bas-relief. Features a raised depiction of the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child and a scepter.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks would be on the reverse or the jump ring, typically '925' or 'Sterling'. No marks are visible on the front face.
Construction Details
Die-struck/stamped from a metal sheet. The border features machine-cut diamond pattern engraving for light refraction, with a soldered jump ring at the top.
Functional Features
Soldered circular bale for attachment to a neck chain; double-sided possible but likely flat-backed.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Pendant utility.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-assisted craftsmanship; the precision of the border indicates high-quality die-striking tools and mechanical engine-turning.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the die-striking; crispness of the border facets; typical jump ring solder point. Authentic vermeil will show silver-colored wear on the bale if used heavily.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy or the United States. Italy is the primary producer of high-quality vermeil religious medals with engine-turned borders.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary with Mid-Century influence. This specific style of 'diamond cut' border gained high popularity from the 1970s through today.
Age Estimate
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (c. 1980 - present).
Cultural Significance
Represents Catholic devotional practices; such medals are often gifted for Sacraments like Confirmation or First Holy Communion.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Light surface wear on the high points of the relief and minor tarnish in the recessed areas. Gold plating appears intact without 'bleeding' of the silver core.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD depending on weight and brand; primarily valued as jewelry rather than antique silver.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid silver dips which will strip the gold plating. Use a soft silver polishing cloth (like the one pictured) very gently. Do not use abrasive pastes.
Similar Pieces
Miraculous Medals or St. Christopher medals; often found in solid 14k gold (much lighter) or base metal (heavier with brassy smell).
Interesting Facts
The 'Diamond Cut' technique used on the border became a hallmark of affordable luxury in the late 20th century, allowing silver jewelry to mimic the sparkle of gemstones.