14K Yellow Gold Hexagonal Virgin Mary Miraculous Medal Pendant
Religious Medal Pendant · Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains copper and silver to maintain the classic warm golden tone visible in the luster.
Purity: 14K (58.5% pure gold). This is the standard purity for American jewelry, offering a balance between rich color and structural durability.
Type
Religious Medal Pendant
Purity
14K (58.5% pure gold). This is the standard purity for American jewelry, offering a balance between rich color and structural durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains copper and silver to maintain the classic warm golden tone visible in the luster.
Weight
0.8 - 1.5 grams. The piece is diminutive and appears to be a thin die-struck plate, which keeps the weight low for comfortable daily wear.
Description
A delicate 14K yellow gold religious medal featuring the Blessed Virgin Mary in a unique hexagonal frame. The center depicts the traditional Miraculous Medal iconography in raised relief against a textured background. This piece combines ancient spiritual symbolism with a clean, geometric silhouette suitable for modern minimalist styling.
Key Features
Hexagonal outer frame, which is a departure from the traditional oval shape; dual-texture finish (matte vs. polish); petite scale allowing for stacking with other necklaces.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold with a dual-finish: a high-polish raised border and central figure, contrasted by a satin or matte sandblasted recessed background.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '14K' or '585' on the reverse side or on the jump ring (bale). Small maker's marks or 'ITALY' origins are common for these religious charms.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 12mm in diameter (hexagonal width). It is considered a 'petite' or 'charm size' pendant.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies entirely on the relief of the gold die-strike to create visual detail and shadow.
Clasp & Closure
Needs a bale or jump ring. Currently shows a small integrated loop at the bottom; if this is intended to be worn as shown, it requires a jump ring to attach to a chain.
Chain & Links
N/A. Shown as a standalone pendant. Recommended for a fine 0.5mm to 1.0mm cable or box chain.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck construction. The sharpness of the hexagonal edges indicates high-pressure stamping. The soldering of the attachment loop is clean and centered.
Authentication Indicators
The deep yellow hue is consistent with 14K gold; no signs of base metal 'bleeding' or verdigris at the edges suggests solid gold rather than plating.
Origin & Maker
Likely USA or Italy. Major manufacturers of religious jewelry include Stuller, Remington, or various Italian gold workshops.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern. While the Miraculous Medal design dates back to 1830, the geometric hexagonal frame is a modern 21st-century stylistic choice.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990s - Present. The crispness of the hexagonal lines and the modern sandblasted finishing technique suggest recent manufacture.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of faith, protection, and devotion within the Catholic tradition. It is one of the most widely worn religious gold items globally.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The relief remains sharp with no signs of significant facial wear. The bottom loop is intact, though it lacks an upper bale for traditional hanging. Grade: Excellent.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: $40 - $65 USD (based on current spot). Retail Replacement Value: $125 - $225 USD in a jewelry boutique setting.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid harsh chemicals like chlorine which can cause 'stress corrosion cracking' in lower-karat gold alloys.
Similar Items
Traditional Oval Miraculous Medals, 18K Gold Medjugorje pendants, or gold-filled religious charms which would feel significantly lighter.
Interesting Facts
The Miraculous Medal was originally called the Medal of the Immaculate Conception, based on the visions of Saint Catherine Labouré in Paris in 1830.