The Virgin of El Pilar medal is one of the most requested, especially as October 12 approaches. And almost always the same question arises: “Which one should I choose?”. They are all the Pilarica, but each has its own character, so here is our little guide to help you choose, whether it’s for you or as a gift.
1. What it means to wear the Pilarica
According to tradition, the Virgin appeared to the apostle James on the banks of the Ebro in Zaragoza to encourage him in his mission, and left him the column, the pillar, that gives the devotion its name. That is why she is always depicted on her column, and that is why her medal represents steadfastness in faith and the Virgin’s companionship on the journey. We explain it in detail in the history and curiosities of the Virgin of El Pilar and in the apostle James and the Virgin of El Pilar.
And if you want to experience it through the customs of Zaragoza, we tell you five traditions of El Pilar to wear your medal with meaning.
2. With pearls, the most classic
If you are unsure, start here. The Virgin of El Pilar medal with natural pearls is the Pilarica in her most classic version: the pearl is a traditional symbol of purity, and each one has its own shape and its own shine. Medals with natural pearls are the most popular choice for a baptism or first communion, and a sure winner for a mother or grandmother named Pilar.
3. With natural stones, to add colour
If you are looking for a medal with more personality, look at those with natural stones. Lapis lazuli has an intense blue closely linked to Marian iconography; topaz provides a luminous shine that has traditionally been associated with joy; amazonite gives it an aqua-green tone, and rubies provide an intense red. And if you cannot decide on a single colour, the multicoloured one combines natural stones in various shades. Since the stones are natural, no two medals are alike.
4. With enamel, a different touch
We also have Pilar medals with a natural pearl and hand-applied enamel, such as the lilac enamel or the green enamel. They are a great idea for anyone who already has a classic medal and wants another with more colour.
5. Who it is a great gift for
- For a Pilar, Pili, or Pilarica, on October 12 or any day of the year.
- For a baptism or first communion, it is best with a natural pearl. Chains are not left around babies' necks: the usual practice is to keep the medal until they are old enough to wear it.
- For anyone who carries Aragon in their heart and lives far from their homeland. You can find more ideas in gifts from your homeland.
- For anyone who is going to walk the Camino de Santiago, because of the history that unites the Virgin of El Pilar with the apostle.
And if you want the gift to be even more complete, look at our gift sets: the Pilar medal with a matching bracelet, necklace, or choker.
6. How to wear and care for it
Our Virgin of El Pilar medals are our own designs and are handmade in Spain, in zamak with 18K gold plating. All come with their gold-plated chain, 40 cm long with a 5 cm extender, and gift-wrapped. To preserve the shine, put it on after perfume and cream, and take it off when showering, swimming, or exercising. You can find all the tips in how to care for gold-plated jewellery.
Facts you can check
- The image of the Virgin of El Pilar is a 36 cm tall wooden statue from the first half of the 15th century, placed on a 1.70 m jasper column. Source
- Tradition places the Virgin’s arrival in Zaragoza in the early hours of January 2, in the year 40, when the apostle James was preaching on the banks of the Ebro. Source
- The Virgin has more than 450 mantles. On the 2nd, 12th, and 20th of each month, she is presented without a mantle, except on October 12 and May 20. Source
- On February 8, 1913, King Alfonso XIII signed the order that proclaimed the Virgin of El Pilar patron of the Civil Guard. Source
- October 12 is Spain’s National Day by Law 18/1987, of October 7. Source
The most beautiful medals in the world are at Khartes: discover all our Virgin of El Pilar medals, with 24–72-hour shipping and free shipping from €65 on the mainland and Balearic Islands.
Marian and Bárbara
The most beautiful medals are at www.khartesmadrid.com