Cross, Crucifix or Saint Medal? A Guide to Religious Gold Pendants
A religious pendant is one of the most personal gifts you can give. It is often chosen for a baptism, first communion, confirmation, graduation or a milestone birthday, and it is the kind of piece people wear every day for years. If you are choosing one, these are the questions we hear most, answered plainly.
Cross or crucifix: what is the difference?
A cross is the shape alone. A crucifix is a cross that shows the figure of Christ. Crucifixes are traditional in Catholic and Orthodox families, while many Protestant families prefer a plain cross. If you are not sure which the person would choose, a plain cross is the safer gift, and a reversible crucifix-to-cross pendant lets them decide.
Within crosses there is plenty of variety: a classic Latin cross with a longer lower arm, a budded cross with rounded ends, polished or textured finishes, and designs set with diamonds. Smaller crosses suit everyday wear and young wearers; larger crosses make more of a statement on a heavier chain.
The Miraculous Medal
The Miraculous Medal is an oval medal showing the Virgin Mary with the words O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. It dates to 1830 in Paris, when, according to the Church, Mary appeared to Sister Catherine Labouré and asked for the medal to be made. It is one of the most popular Catholic medals and is often given at baptisms and first communions, and to anyone who needs comfort.
The St. Christopher medal
St. Christopher is the patron saint of travelers. His medal usually shows him carrying the Christ child across a river, often with the words St. Christopher, protect us. It is a classic gift for someone starting to drive, leaving for college, joining the military or traveling for work, and it is a favorite for men as well as women.
The four-way medal
A four-way medal, sometimes called a cruciform medal, combines several medals in one cross-shaped piece. It commonly shows the Sacred Heart, St. Joseph, St. Christopher and the Miraculous Medal, so one pendant carries several devotions. It is a thoughtful choice when you cannot pick just one.
Choosing the right size
- For children and first communion: a small pendant, about half an inch to three quarters of an inch tall, on a fine chain.
- For everyday wear: a medium pendant, about three quarters of an inch to an inch, which shows its detail without feeling heavy.
- For a statement: a larger cross or medal, usually worn by men on a wider chain.
Choosing the chain
A pendant needs a chain strong enough to carry it and a bail it can slide through. For most religious pendants we suggest a box or cable chain about 1 to 2 mm wide. Women usually choose 18 inches; men usually choose 20 to 24 inches so the pendant rests at the collarbone or below. Our guide to gold chain length and width explains where each length sits and how wide a chain a pendant needs.
A box chain is a favorite for religious pendants because its square links keep their shape and let the bail slide freely, so the pendant always hangs straight. A cable chain is lighter and a little more delicate, which suits a small cross or a child's medal. If the pendant is large or heavy, step up to a slightly wider chain so the two look balanced together.
Engraving and keeping it special
Many medals have a plain back, and a name, a date or a short prayer engraved there makes the gift even more personal. Store the pendant in its gift box when it is not being worn, and wipe it with a soft cloth now and then to keep the gold bright.
A gift that lasts
Real gold is a good choice for a piece meant to be worn for many years. 14k gold has a rich color; 10k is a little harder and more affordable. Either way, add a short note about why you chose it.
In-stock pieces ship free by next-day UPS when you order by 4:30 PM ET, Monday through Friday, and every order comes with 30-day returns.
Shop the look
In stock and ready to ship: free next-day UPS when you order by 4:30 PM ET, Monday–Friday. 30-day returns.
Share
