Mixed Material Religious Charm Bracelet with Sterling Silver Crucifix and Miraculous Medal
Jewelry (Religious Bracelet/Charms) · Unidentified artisan; likely a small workshop or religious supplier specializing in devotional items. Characterized by mass-produced religious findings common in European and American Catholic markets.
Pattern: Non-specific religious devotional assembly; features a traditional crucifix and a Virgin Mary Miraculous Medal charm.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Bracelet/Charms)
Maker
Unidentified artisan; likely a small workshop or religious supplier specializing in devotional items. Characterized by mass-produced religious findings common in European and American Catholic markets.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate for the metal components. Includes natural wood (olive or cedar) square beads and cord/leather-like material for the main loop.
Dimensions
Estimated length: 15-18 cm (bracelet length). Weight: Approximately 15-25 grams total. Charms are standard 1-2 cm size.
Description
An eclectic religious devotional bracelet combining silver-toned liturgical charms with organic wooden elements. The piece features a prominent crucifix and a decorative Miraculous Medal charm hanging from a linked silver-toned chain which is integrated into a brown cord wrap.
Key Features
Contrast between geometric wooden beads and organic metal forms; sunburst pattern on the medal; ribbed 'barrel' ends on the crucifix cross-arms.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate for the metal components. Includes natural wood (olive or cedar) square beads and cord/leather-like material for the main loop.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to highlight recessed details on the crucifix and medal. The crucifix features a textured ribbing at the ends, while the medal has a scalloped, sunburst-engraved edge.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None clearly visible in image; typically found on the reverse of the medal or the jump ring. 'Sterling' or '925' would indicate purity; however, many small devotional pieces are unmarked or stamped 'Italy'.
Construction Details
Assembled using machine-made chain and jump rings. The crucifix and medal are die-struck or cast. Beads are drilled and threaded onto a central cord.
Functional Features
Includes a spring ring or lobster-style clasp for secure fastening. The charms are detachable/interchangeable via jump rings.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is jewelry. The cord is made of a brown synthetic or organic fiber for comfort against the skin.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial assembly level. Elements are cast in multiples with assembly performed by hand using standardized jeweler's findings.
Authentication Indicators
Style of the bail and jump rings consistent with commercial religious jewelry; wear patterns are localized to contact points on charms.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy or the United States, given the high volume of similar religious jewelry manufactured in these regions for the devotional market.
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century to Contemporary). The styling of the crucifix with textured ends is typical of post-Vatican II religious commercial design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2010. The condition of the cord and the style of the jump rings suggest a relatively contemporary production date.
Cultural Significance
A personal sacramental often used for daily protection or as a portable prayer tool (similar to a decades rosary), representing the intersection of fashion and folk-religious practice.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Moderate tarnish on the silver components; the wood beads show slight surface wear. The cord shows minor fraying near the knot.
Value Estimate
$25 - $75 USD depending on verified silver content. If purely plated, value is primarily sentimental ($10-$15).
Care & Maintenance
Gently wipe with a soft cloth. Avoid silver dips as they may damage the wood beads or the cord's structural integrity. Store in a dry place to prevent wood swelling.
Similar Pieces
Standard full Rosaries; Catholic charm bracelets; Italian 'Holy Spirit' medals (often featuring smoother, more minimalist designs).
Interesting Facts
The Miraculous Medal (the oval charm) is based on the visions of Saint Catherine Labouré in 1830 and is among the most widely mass-produced pieces of silver religious jewelry in history.