What periods do these pieces span?

The inventory covers items from the nineteenth century through the Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Art Deco eras up to the mid-twentieth century. Most surviving examples date from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, reflecting active manufacturing periods in French workshops.

How were religious medals worn?

Devotional medals were suspended from chains or ribbons as personal tokens of faith and protection. They often marked significant life events such as first communions. Wearers kept them close to the heart beneath clothing or displayed them openly depending on personal custom.

What is plique-a-jour enamel?

Plique-a-jour is a demanding technique that creates translucent enamel areas without a solid backing plate. Light passes directly through the coloured glass compartments. This method appears frequently on high-grade Edwardian and Art Nouveau religious pendants.

Are these items marked for gold purity?

French pieces from this era utilise specific regional assay marks to indicate gold content. The Eagle head stamp commonly denotes standard 18k gold purity. Maker marks also appear as small stamped punches near the edge of medals and ring shanks.