Scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
The Our Lady of Mount Carmel scapular is a sign of her protection and one of the oldest symbols of faith. Ours are scapular medals: Our Lady of Mount Carmel on one side and the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the other, made of mother-of-pearl, with pearls, natural stones or coloured enamels, handmade in Spain.
Chain included and gift-wrapped. A First Communion classic to wear for life.
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What is a scapular?
The scapular originated as part of the Carmelite habit: a strip of cloth that hung over the shoulders (from the Latin scapulae). According to tradition, on July 16, 1251, Our Lady of Mount Carmel appeared to Saint Simon Stock and gave him the scapular as a sign of her protection for anyone who wore it with devotion. Over time, it was made smaller so that anyone could wear it: two pieces of cloth joined by cords, one over the chest and one over the back.
It is not an amulet: it is a sacramental, a sign of consecration to the Virgin and a commitment to live as a Christian. We explain it in more detail in the scapular: what it is, how it is worn and what it means.
The scapular medal
In 1910, Saint Pius X permitted the cloth scapular to be replaced by a medal featuring the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on one side and the Virgin on the other. That is how ours are: they do not lose their shape, can be worn every day with any clothing, and last a lifetime.
How a scapular is imposed
The first time, the cloth scapular is imposed by a priest with a brief blessing, often on the day of First Communion or on July 16, the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Once imposed, the scapular medal can be worn in its place; the custom is to bless the medal, and any priest can do so. If you change medals, you simply need to have the new one blessed.
Mother-of-pearl, pearls, stones or enamel: how to choose
- Mother-of-pearl (€65): mother-of-pearl is the inner layer of shells, white and iridescent. It is the most classic and delicate scapular, and the one we receive the most requests for for a First Communion. Available in limited quantities.
- With natural pearls (€69): elegant and timeless, for a mother, a grandmother or a bride.
- With natural stones (€65–69): lapis lazuli, turquoise, kyanite, unakite, fluorite, sugilite, tourmaline, rubies or sapphires. Each stone is different, so no two are alike.
- With enamel and pearl (€69): hand-enameled by our enamellers in pearl white, blue, lilac or green. More colour and more joy.
All come with a 40 cm gold-plated chain and a 5 cm extender. If you are looking for a round Our Lady of Mount Carmel medal without the Sacred Heart, see our Our Lady of Mount Carmel medals.
Who to give it to
It is the classic gift for First Communion and confirmation, the perfect gift for a Carmen on July 16 and a companion for sailors and people of the sea, who have Our Lady of Mount Carmel as their patron. Giving a medal is an act of love.
Frequently asked questions about the scapular
What does it mean to wear the Our Lady of Mount Carmel scapular?
It is a sign of consecration to Our Lady of Mount Carmel and of trust in her protection. It is not an amulet: it is a sacramental that invites you to live as a Christian and to turn to Mary.
Can the scapular be worn as a medal?
Yes. Since 1910, the Church has permitted the cloth scapular to be replaced by a medal featuring the Sacred Heart of Jesus on one side and the Virgin on the other. That is how all our scapulars are.
How is a scapular imposed?
The first imposition is performed by a priest with a blessing, often at First Communion or on July 16. Afterwards, the blessed scapular medal can be worn in its place.
What is the difference between the mother-of-pearl scapular and the enameled one?
Mother-of-pearl is a natural material, white and iridescent, obtained from the inside of shells: it is the most classic version. Enamel is applied by hand in colour and creates a more joyful piece. Both are gold-plated and feature pearls or natural stones.
When is Our Lady of Mount Carmel celebrated?
On July 16, the anniversary of the tradition of the delivery of the scapular to Saint Simon Stock in 1251.
Does it include a chain, and how long does it take?
Yes, a 40 cm gold-plated chain with a 5 cm extender. It usually arrives within 24–72 hours, with free shipping from €65 to the mainland and Balearic Islands, and always gift-wrapped.
