When someone looks for a Miraculous Medal, one of the first questions is about the material: gold, silver, or gold-plated? Each option has its own purpose, price, and care requirements. We explain it clearly, and also tell you what we do and why.
Khartes Medals
Our Miraculous Medals in Silver and Gold-Plated
Miraculous Medal and Cross€95I want it
Miraculous Medal with Natural Pearls€69I want it
Miraculous Medal Ring€39I want it
Handcrafted in Spain · Free shipping on orders over €65
Solid Gold
A solid gold medal is made entirely of gold (usually 18 carats in Spain). It is the most durable option and also the most expensive, because the price depends on the weight of the gold. It is the ultimate “forever” gift, although today many people prefer to spend less and have several medals.
We do not make solid gold medals: we prefer our Miraculous Medals to feature pearls, natural stones, and colored enamels at a price that makes them affordable as gifts.
925 Silver
925 silver, or sterling silver, is silver mixed with a small amount of other metals to make it stronger. It is a precious metal that can darken slightly over time, but this can be cleaned. If you like the look of gold but want a precious metal underneath, gold-plated silver is an option.
This is the case with our Miraculous Medal and Cross (€95): gold-plated 925 silver, featuring the Miraculous Virgin next to the cross and surrounded by white cubic zirconia. It is the most special piece in the collection, perfect for a confirmation, wedding, or anniversary.
18K Gold Plating
A gold-plated piece of jewelry has a layer of gold over another metal. Most of our Miraculous Medals are handmade in Spain from zamak with 18K gold plating, which allows us to offer models with natural pearls or stones from €65. When properly cared for, the plating lasts a long time: we explain what it depends on in what 18K gold plating is and how to make it last.
The main trick is simple: put it on after applying perfume and cream, and take it off when showering, swimming, exercising, or sleeping. You can find more tips in how to care for gold-plated jewelry.
So, which one should I choose?
- For everyday wear and matching with color: a Miraculous Medal with 18K gold plating and a natural stone or pearl (€65–69).
- For a special gift in precious metal: the Miraculous Medal and Cross in gold-plated 925 silver (€95).
- To complement the medal: our new Miraculous Medal ring, a signet style with 18K gold plating that is adjustable (€39).
If you are still undecided between models, read our guide to choosing your Miraculous Medal. And if you want to know why a custom-designed medal is not the same as an imported one, we explain it in Khartes Medals vs. Imported Medals.
The most beautiful medals in the world are at Khartes.
Marian and Bárbara