The Miraculous Medal is one of the most beloved symbols of Marian devotion. Since 1830, when Our Lady appeared to Saint Catherine Labouré in Paris.
According to tradition, it was the Virgin Mary herself who asked for the minting of a medal with precise symbols and a clear promise: abundant graces for those who would wear it with trust.
The Miraculous Medal is a sign of entrustment, a tool that recalls prayer, conversion and trust in Mary's maternal protection.
Discover our collection dedicated to the Miraculous Medal.
The Meaning of the Miraculous Medal
Before choosing, understand the value of what you're purchasing. The Miraculous Medal is a sacramental of the Catholic Church with profound spiritual meaning.
Front side:
- Virgin Mary with open arms, rays of light from her hands and the prayer "O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee"
Back side:
- The M intertwined with the cross, symbol of the union between Mary and Christ in the work of Redemption
- The two hearts, that of Jesus crowned with thorns and that of Mary pierced by a sword
- The twelve stars, representing the Apostles
Material
Medals are made in different materials:
- Sterling silver 925, elegant and durable, ideal for daily use
- 18k yellow or white gold, precious and symbolically connected to light and royalty
- Hypoallergenic stainless steel, practical and durable
- Plated metals, more accessible but still meaningful
For an important gift like a sacrament, silver or gold represent a lasting choice over time. Very refined versions exist like those enriched with cubic zirconia or diamonds for those who prefer to have or give the most precious version. For personal daily use, stainless steel can also be a valid solution.
Discover our collection of Miraculous Medal in Sterling Silver.
Discover our collection of Miraculous Medal 18k Gold.
Size and Shape
The Miraculous Medal is available in different sizes and shapes, the most traditional and faithful to the original apparition is the oval one. The main measurement to consider is the height of the oval medal, without including the top bail. This dimension determines the visual impact and wearability of the jewelry.
We can distinguish three main categories:
- Small (height 10 – 15 mm | 0.39 – 0.59 in) Ideal for children, teens or for those who prefer a discreet and minimal style. They're lightweight, elegant and perfect for everyday use.
- Medium (height 16 – 27 mm | 0.63 – 1.06 in) The most versatile and widespread. They offer a good balance between visibility and sobriety, being suitable for most adults.
- Large (height over 27 mm | over 1.06 in) More evident and important, ideal for those who want the Marian symbol to be highly visible or for special occasions.
Choosing the correct height means finding the right balance between proportion, comfort and aesthetic presence, so that the Miraculous Medal can be worn every day naturally.
The Blessing of the Miraculous Medal
The blessing deeply strengthens the Medal's meaning, connecting it to Marian grace and protection. It's not obligatory, but completes the spiritual value.
A particularly solemn moment to receive it is during the Angelus in St. Peter's Square. In this context of universal prayer, the medal becomes a concrete sign of entrustment to Mary and accompanies whoever wears it on their daily spiritual journey.
How to use the Miraculous Medal
There are no rigid rules on how to wear the Miraculous Medal, but some practices are established in tradition:
- Around the neck: It's the most common way. You can choose a chain or cord. The length should allow the medal to rest close to the heart.
- On the wrist: Particularly widespread among young people, it offers a modern way to wear it.
- In the scapular: Some faithful sew it into the scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
- In a pocket or purse: Those who cannot or don't want to display it can carry it discreetly.
The Church doesn't impose a specific direction, but by tradition, it's preferable to wear the image of the Virgin Mary facing outward.
When to give the Miraculous Medal
Giving the Miraculous Medal is a gesture of great spiritual value. Here are the most suitable occasions:
Sacraments
- Baptism: The most traditional moment, accompanies the child from the beginning of their faith journey
- First Communion: Sign of Marian protection at the first encounter with the Eucharist
- Confirmation: Symbol of the Holy Spirit's presence and Mary's guidance
- Marriage: Some couples exchange it together with wedding rings
For important life events
- Birth: First spiritual gift from grandparents and godparents
- Difficult moments: During illness or bereavement, to offer spiritual comfort
- Other meaningful occasions: As a simple sign of affection and protection
Practical tip: If possible, have the Medal blessed before giving it. This gesture adds an even deeper spiritual meaning to your gift.
Practical Advice for Purchase
It's important to verify that the medal correctly features:
- The complete invocation
- The authentic symbols on the back
- Careful and legible workmanship
Detail precision guarantees respect for the original tradition.
For silver and gold, verify the presence of the certification hallmark. Check that the chain or cord are proportionate to the weight and made of quality material.
For a gift, opt for beautiful packaging. Attach a brief explanation of its meaning or a personal message with a prayer intention: these are simple gestures that will leave an indelible memory.
Where to buy the Miraculous Medal
When you need to buy a Miraculous Medal, trust a shop specialized in religious articles, capable of offering you quality, authenticity and attention to detail. A medal destined for personal devotion or a special occasion must be well-made, carefully finished and designed to last over time.
Since 1952 we've welcomed believers and pilgrims from all over the world in our shop in the heart of St. Peter's Square. We'll guide you in choosing the medal that best suits your needs.
We also offer the possibility of having the medal blessed by the Holy Father during the Sunday Angelus, making the gift even more special and spiritually meaningful.
If you're not in Rome, you can use our live video chat: we show you the medals up close and offer you the same personalized consultation you would receive in the shop. In person or online, we accompany you carefully in choosing your Miraculous Medal.
Maintenance and Care of the Medal
To preserve the beauty of the Miraculous Medal:
- Sterling Silver 925: Clean periodically with specific cloth for silverware. Avoid prolonged contact with salt water, chlorine and perfumes.
- Gold: Requires little maintenance. Gentle washing with lukewarm water and neutral soap.
- Plated Metals: Avoid abrasive products that remove plating.
It's advisable to remove it during intense sports, manual work, swimming pool or sea bathing, and perfume application.
A Choice of the Heart
Choosing the Miraculous Medal means performing an act of faith and devotion. Whether for yourself or as a gift, what's important is doing it with awareness and respect for the spiritual meaning this medal carries. The perfect Medal is the one chosen with the heart, which reflects your sensitivity and your journey of faith.
Now you're able to orient yourself with greater awareness in this choice, valuing not only the material aspect but especially the spiritual richness of this ancient and always current Marian symbol.
Discover our collection dedicated to the Miraculous Medal.