Saint Mary Magdalene Sterling Silver Religious Devotional Medal
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant) · Unknown manufacturer; likely an American or Italian devotional jewelry firm such as Bliss, Creed, or McVan & Sons, known for high-quality Catholic sacramental.
Pattern: Saint Mary Magdalene at the Foot of the Cross; oval devotional series.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; likely an American or Italian devotional jewelry firm such as Bliss, Creed, or McVan & Sons, known for high-quality Catholic sacramental.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction without base metal fillers.
Dimensions
Standard medium pendant size: approximately 20mm x 12mm (0.75 in x 0.5 in). Estimated weight: 1.5 - 2.5 grams.
Description
A classic oval religious medal featuring Saint Mary Magdalene in a posture of mourning and prayer at the foot of the Cross. The medal utilizes an 'antique' finish where silver oxidation is left in the crevices to create depth and contrast, making the sacred imagery more legible. It is a piece of 'sacramental' jewelry intended for personal piety.
Key Features
Specific iconography of the Crucifixion; raised 'STE MAGDALENE' text; matte sandblasted-effect background; tapered bail loop.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction without base metal fillers.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized satin finish to highlight recessed details; die-struck bas-relief depicting the saint kneeling before a cross; polished raised border; engraved name footer.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'STERLING' or '.925' on the reverse side. No visible assay marks on the obverse.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a prepared metal sheet using a hardened steel hub; hand-finished edges with a soldered jump ring attachment.
Functional Features
Closed jump ring for suspension on a necklace chain; designed for daily wear and tactile prayer.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple circular jump ring made of sterling silver wire, soldered for security.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade die-striking. High-quality detail in the drapery of the figure's garments and the texture of the ground, indicative of a professional-grade steel die.
Authentication Indicators
Typical wear patterns on the jump ring; hallmark location on reverse; metal color consistent with .925 sterling silver rather than silver plate or pewter.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (Providence, RI) or Italy (Arezzo/Loreto region), both centers for religious silver manufacturing.
Era & Period
Modern Devotional (Mid-20th Century to Contemporary). Styles follow the traditional Catholic iconography popularized in the 1940s-1970s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950–1990. The crispness of the die-strike and the specific font suggest a late mid-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the long-standing tradition of Catholic 'wearable art' used for spiritual protection and identity. Mary Magdalene is a pivotal figure in Christian history, often depicted in silver to represent purity and repentance.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. Minimal surface tarnish; structural integrity of the jump ring is intact; no significant deep scratches or loss of detail to the central figure.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $55.00 USD. Value is based primarily on silver content and religious appeal rather than antique rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Use a silver polishing cloth on raised surfaces only to preserve the dark oxidation in the background which provides the design's depth.
Similar Pieces
Miraculous Medal (St. Catherine Laboure design), St. Christopher travel medals, or French Art Nouveau medals which would feature more fluid, organic lines and higher relief.
Interesting Facts
St. Mary Magdalene is the patron saint of converts, pharmacists, and glovers. Medals like these were often given at Confirmation or during pilgrimages.