In many Spanish families, the first piece of jewelry a child receives is a medal, and it almost always arrives on the day of their baptism. It is usually a gift from the godparents, symbolizing their commitment to guide their godchild in the faith. It is a gift that is kept for a lifetime.
The Baptism of Christ, Piero della Francesca. National Gallery, London (Wikimedia Commons, public domain)
We have gathered our favorite medals for this occasion in baptism gifts.
Which devotion to choose
- The family devotion. If there is a Virgin or a saint who is very present in the home, the town, or the city of origin, it is the option with the most meaning.
- The baby's name. A Pilar, a Carmen, a Rocío, or an Antonio has their "natural" medal. Check our name day calendar.
- A classic. The Immaculate and La Milagrosa are two of the most traditional baptism medals. Furthermore, La Milagrosa was born precisely as a medal to be distributed and given as a gift: we tell you its history here.
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Very beloved in coastal families and throughout Spain, it is another safe option. View Our Lady of Mount Carmel medals.
Safety: the baby should not wear it
This is important: babies and young children should not wear chains or pendants due to the risk of choking or entanglement, nor should they have them within reach. It is customary to keep the medal in its box as a keepsake of the baptism until the child is old enough to wear it, for example at their first communion.
A medal for life
That is why it is best to choose a piece that will also be liked when they grow up: a classic design, with pearls or natural stones, and an adjustable chain. Our medals are handmade in Spain with 18K gold plating and come with an adjustable chain included. For the plating to last for years, follow our care tips.
A gift also for the mother and the godmother
Many families take advantage of the baptism to also gift a medal to the mother or the godmother, so they can keep the little one close every day. You will find ideas in baptism gifts.
And once they have it, a beautiful gesture: take it to be blessed. We tell you how in this video.
▶ Watch the video
How to have your medal blessed
More gift ideas
If you are looking for a gift for another occasion, in a few days we will publish a complete guide to religious gifts for communions, confirmations, weddings, and more. In the meantime, you can read what medal to give at a first communion.