What materials are used in these medallions?

The pieces utilise yellow, rose, and white gold, predominantly in eighteen-carat purity, alongside occasional nine-carat or fifteen-carat examples. Artisans added mother-of-pearl, pearls, diamonds, turquoise, and coloured enamel. Surfaces are finished with hand engraving, twisted wire borders, and relief casting to accent the central motifs.

How do I identify the period of a medallion?

Dating relies on stylistic markers such as Art Nouveau floral lines, Art Deco geometric framing, or nineteenth-century devotional iconography. Maker signatures and French hallmarks also assist in establishing the era. Comparing the manufacturing technique, such as plique-a-jour enamelling or hand-stamped relief, provides further clues to age.

Were these pieces worn as jewellery?

Most items function as pendants or charms intended for necklaces, chains, or charm bracelets. Double-sided pieces and lockets offered personal spaces for portraits or hair. Religious medals were worn close to the heart as symbols of faith or protective talismans.

What themes appear on the pendants?

Religious imagery dominates, featuring the Virgin Mary, Madonna and Child, Jesus Christ, and various saints. Secular themes include zodiac signs, lucky clovers, hunting horns, and floral wreaths. Monogrammed pieces featuring engraved initials also appear frequently within the selection.