Vintage Miraculous Medal Virgin Mary Pendant Necklace
Unbranded · Jewelry & Watches > Necklaces
Era / Decade
1970s-1980s based on the spring ring clasp design and base metal patina.
Material
Likely gold-plated or gold-toned brass/base metal pendant with a silver-toned (possibly stainless steel or nickel) fine link chain.
Condition
Fair to Good. Visible tarnish and plating wear on the pendant edges and significant discoloration/metal fatigue on the delicate chain.
Demand Level
Moderate. Religious charms are consistent sellers but high supply makes individual costume pieces slow movers.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$8.00 - $18.00 depending on if the metal is precious (Sterling or Gold) or costume.
Estimated Retail Value
$15.00-$25.00 for a modern mass-produced costume version.
Comparable Sales
Similar costume-grade vintage religious medals typically sell for $10-$15 on eBay. If identified as Sterling Silver, price jumps to $25-$40.
Description
A dainty vintage religious necklace featuring a circular Miraculous Medal pendant of the Virgin Mary. The pendant has a sunburst or scalloped textured border in a gold-tone finish, suspended from a fine silver-toned link chain with a spring ring closure.
Key Features
Religious/Catholic iconography which has a steady niche market; dainty 'minimalist' aesthetic currently trending; vintage patina and 'scalloped' border design.
Authenticity Indicators
Low confidence in precious metal without seeing a '925' or '14K' hallmark. Most items of this construction style found in thrift bins are gold-filled or plated costume jewelry.
Flaws to Note
Significant metal oxidation and color mismatch between pendant and chain; chain appears fragile and may be prone to snapping; plating is wearing off on the high points of the medal.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (if sold as vintage), eBay, or Depop (appeals to the 'vintage aesthetic' or 'coquette' trends).
Selling Tips
Check the clasp and the back of the pendant with a magnifying glass for hallmarks like '1/20 12k GF' or '925'. If no marks are found, list as 'gold tone'. Clean gently with a jewelry cloth but do not over-polish the vintage patina. Use keywords like 'Marian', 'Catholic Gift', and 'Religious Protection'.