How do I wear a pendant medal?

Pendant medals are typically suspended from a fine gold chain to be worn around the neck as a necklace. They also function successfully when added to a charm bracelet alongside other small gold elements. Because these pieces often feature detailed relief work on both sides or delicate enamel, they suit daily wear provided they are paired with a secure chain.

What materials are used in these medals?

The pieces on this page are constructed mainly from 18K yellow gold, with occasional examples incorporating rose gold or white gold accents. Makers frequently enhanced the gold frame and figures using enamel, mother of pearl and seed pearls. These materials reflect the standard palette of French jewellers working during the Art Nouveau and subsequent periods.

How can I tell the period of a medal?

Dating relies heavily on stylistic markers such as the flowing organic lines characteristic of Art Nouveau designs from around 1900 to 1910, or the cleaner geometries of later mid-century pieces. Many medals also bear maker signatures or French poinçon assay marks stamped directly onto the gold loop or rim, which help identify the exact era of production.