Vintage Circular Virgin Mary Madonna Sterling Silver Medallion Pendant
Jewelry (Religious Pendant/Medal) · Typically manufactured by specialty religious silversmiths or devotion-ware companies such as Creed, HMH, or various European French/Italian workshops. Without a visible backstamp, it is identified as a mid-tier artisan religious medal.
Pattern: Traditional Catholic Iconography; features the profile of the Virgin Mary (Madonna) in a cutout halo design.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Pendant/Medal)
Maker
Typically manufactured by specialty religious silversmiths or devotion-ware companies such as Creed, HMH, or various European French/Italian workshops. Without a visible backstamp, it is identified as a mid-tier artisan religious medal.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the luster and tonal oxidization. Common for this type of Catholic medal; occasionally found in silver-plate or 'German Silver' (nickel base).
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 15mm to 20mm (small to medium 'dime-sized' pendant). Estimated weight: 2.0 to 4.5 grams.
Description
An elegant and spiritually resonant religious pendant depicting a profile of the Virgin Mary. The design utilizes negative space through a circular cutout, giving the central figure a floating or 'haloed' effect. The craftsmanship is evidenced by the detailed draping of the veil and the delicate textured border that frames the silhouette, offering a classic piece of devotional jewelry that balances piety with mid-century aesthetic simplicity.
Key Features
Floating cutout design; profile-rendered 'Madonna' silhouette; textured infinity/wreath border; high-relief die-striking.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on the luster and tonal oxidization. Common for this type of Catholic medal; occasionally found in silver-plate or 'German Silver' (nickel base).
Finish & Decoration
Satin or matte finish on the central figure with high-polish highlights. Features an openwork or 'cutout' design between the figure and the outer rim. The outer border contains a chased or machine-etched laurel wreath or rope-twist pattern symbolizing eternity or victory over death.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are typically located on the reverse side or the small jump ring (bail). Likely includes 'STERLING', '925', or a maker's hallmark (e.g., a lozenge for French silver or a brand logo). None are visible in the provided photo.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a metal sheet to achieve the high-relief profile of the Madonna. The cutout sections were likely machine-stamped or hand-pierced. The bail (the loop at the top) is a soldered jump ring.
Functional Features
Single top-mounted jump ring for suspension on a neck chain or inclusion on a charm bracelet.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Pendant form only).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-striking. The detail in the veil's folds is crisp, and the centering of the silhouette within the ring is precise, indicating a professional workshop production.
Authentication Indicators
The color of the oxidization (grey-black rather than green) suggests a true silver content. The depth of the strike indicates a quality metal rather than a cheap cast alloy.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA, Italy, or France. These three regions represent the highest volume of high-quality sterling religious medals produced in the 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (approx. 1940-1970). The stylized profile and clean circular geometry reflect a transition from late Art Deco influence into Modernist religious art.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965. The crispness of the border and the particular rendering of the veil suggest a post-WWII vintage.
Cultural Significance
Represents the long-standing tradition of Catholic devotional medals used for protection and prayer. Such pieces often serve as gifts for sacraments like Confirmation, First Communion, or as 'travelers' protection' charms.
Condition Notes
Excellent vintage condition. Light surface tarnish (patina) is visible in the recessed areas, which provides depth to the image. No visible warping or heavy scratches. The jump ring appears secure.
Value Estimate
$25 - $65 USD. Value is driven by silver weight and the appeal of the specific design to vintage jewelry collectors and religious buyers.
Care & Maintenance
Polish gently with a silver jewelry cloth; avoid liquid 'silver dips' which can strip the intentional patina from the recessed crevices. Store in a dry, airtight bag when not in use to prevent tarnish.
Similar Pieces
The Miraculous Medal (oval shape with full-length Mary), the Mater Dolorosa medal, or Art Nouveau Mary medals (which usually have more floral/organic flowing borders).
Interesting Facts
Profile medals of Mary became particularly popular in the mid-20th century as jewelry moved away from the more ornate, heavy Victorian styles toward 'light and airy' designs that used cutouts and simplified silhouettes.