What do these medals celebrate?

These medals commemorate religious devotion, patron saints, feast days, and personal milestones such as first communions. Makers also produced zodiac designs and seasonal motifs. Many pieces served as protective talismans for travellers, notably depictions of Saint Christopher. Others honour historical Marian apparitions and sacred hearts.

How do I wear an antique medal?

Antique medals suspend easily from standard gold chains of matching tone, worn alone as a focal point or layered with other charms. Their generous bail loops accommodate various chain thicknesses. Ensure the suspension ring is securely closed to prevent loss during daily wear. The substantial weight of eighteen-karat gold allows these pendants to hang well against the chest.

How do I identify the maker?

Makers typically signed their miniature sculptures near the lower edge of the medal design, often using a surname or initials. Examining the surface with a loupe reveals these hidden signatures. French pieces also carry tiny workshop stamps and guarantee marks on the outer edge or the bail. These control marks help isolate the period of production.

What is plique-a-jour enamel?

Plique-a-jour is a demanding jeweller technique that creates translucent areas within a gold framework, similar to stained glass. Light shines through the coloured glass sections to illuminate the design. Because this work lacks a solid backing, surviving examples require gentle handling to avoid fracturing the delicate enamel walls. This technique appears on choice turn-of-the-century devotional pieces.