Mid-Century Virgin Mary Profile Religious Medal in Sterling Silver
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant) · Unknown manufacturer, likely an Italian or American specialty religious silversmith. These pieces were mass-produced by companies like Creed, McVan, or Chapel for the devotional market.
Pattern: Traditional Virgin Mary Profile (Madonna in Prayer)
Type
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely an Italian or American specialty religious silversmith. These pieces were mass-produced by companies like Creed, McVan, or Chapel for the devotional market.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition with potential rhodium plating to prevent tarnish.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 18mm to 22mm (standard nickel size). Estimated weight: 2.0 to 4.0 grams.
Description
A classic circular religious pendant depicting the Virgin Mary in profile. The figure is rendered with a quiet, contemplative expression, draped in a traditional veil with a halo indicated by a subtle sunken line. The outer edge is finished with a reflective, faceted 'diamond-cut' border that catches light at different angles, providing a modern contrast to the soft, matte finish of the central icon.
Key Features
Satin-finished central relief, reflective diamond-cut outer rim, and traditional Catholic iconographic profile.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition with potential rhodium plating to prevent tarnish.
Finish & Decoration
The medal features a low-relief (bas-relief) profile of the Virgin Mary with a matte/satin finish on the figure and a bright-cut, diamond-engraved decorative border (faceted edges).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on the reverse or the bale (loop) would include "STERLING" or "925". Italian versions may feature a lozenge-shaped maker mark with a city abbreviation (e.g., AR for Arezzo).
Construction Details
Machine-struck or die-cast from a master hub. The decorative border is likely applied via engine-turning or diamond-cutting tools post-striking. The bale is machine-soldered.
Functional Features
Fixed top loop connected to a movable jump ring for attachment to a neck chain or charm bracelet.
Handle & Grip Details
Includes a standard 'pinch' or 'soldered' bale made of sterling silver, designed to withstand daily wear on a fine chain.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality commercial casting/striking. The detail in the veil and facial features indicates a well-maintained master die was used for production.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the die-strike and the specific 'bright-cut' border are consistent with industrial silver manufacturing of the late 20th century. Look for '925' or 'STERLING' on the reverse.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy (the world leader in religious silver medals) or Providence, Rhode Island, USA (a historical hub for religious jewelry manufacturing).
Era & Period
Modern Era / Mid-Century (c. 1950-1980). The geometric 'diamond-cut' border is a hallmark of the 1970s and 80s jewelry design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990. Based on the profile style and the mechanical precision of the geometric border.
Cultural Significance
Represents a fusion of personal faith and fashion. These medals served as both protective amulets in Catholic tradition and as staples of the 20th-century jewelry industry.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible surface tarnish in the crevices (patina), which actually helps define the relief of the face. Minor surface scratches consistent with use. No structural deformities.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $55.00 USD. Value is based primarily on silver content and the commonality of the design.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Use a silver polishing cloth on the faceted border to restore shine, but avoid over-polishing the matte figure to maintain its detail.
Similar Pieces
Creed Sterling Madonna Medals, Vintage Italian 'Our Lady of Sorrows' pendants, and blue enamel Miraculous Medals.
Interesting Facts
Profile medals of Mary became particularly popular in the mid-20th century as 'Miraculous Medals' or 'Madonna' charms, often given as gifts for First Communions or Confirmations.