The Miraculous Medal is one of the most popular gifts. It is the medal given by the godmother at a christening, by the grandmother who passes it on to her granddaughter, by the friend who doesn't know what to say in a difficult time and prefers to say it this way. If you are thinking of giving a Miraculous Medal, here we tell you what that gesture means, who it is usually given to and when is the best time.

Why the Miraculous Medal is a meaningful gift

Its history begins in Paris in 1830. According to tradition, the Virgin appeared several times to Catherine Labouré, a novice of the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul; at the apparition on November 27, she asked her to have a medal struck. The first ones were made in 1832, with the Church's permission, and distributed throughout Paris.

It wasn't born called "miraculous": it was the people who started calling it that because of the many thanks and favors attributed to those who wore it with faith. That is why, when you give a Miraculous Medal, you are not just giving a piece of jewelry: you are giving a prayer that is worn, "O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee", and the idea that that person is not alone.

If you want to know what each detail of the design means (the Virgin over the world, the M, the cross, the two hearts and the twelve stars on the back), we tell you in the history of the Miraculous Medal and the meaning of its design.

Who to give a Miraculous Medal to

To your mother or your grandmother. Many wore it all their lives and know what it means. A Miraculous Medal with natural pearls is a gift they understand without explanations and that, over the years, often ends up being inherited by a daughter or granddaughter.

To a baby at their christening. It is a classic gift from godparents and grandparents at the christening: the first medal, the one that is kept and put on again years later. We give you more ideas in the christening medal: who gives it and which Virgin to choose.

For a First Communion or a confirmation. At those ages, the medal is already chosen with excitement. The colors of the natural stones, such as the blue of lapis lazuli, are usually very popular with godchildren.

To someone going through a difficult time. An illness, a move, an exam, a bereavement. Sometimes there are no words that work, and a medal worn close to the heart says "I am with you" every day.

To a bride. The Miraculous Medal with pearls is also a beautiful wedding gift, that continues to be used in everyday life.

When to give it

Any day is good, but there are dates that give it a special meaning:

How to choose the Miraculous Medal you are going to give

If you are unsure, think about how that person dresses. For someone who matches everything with white, beige or navy blue, the Miraculous Medal with natural pearls is the safe bet. For someone who wears color, a Miraculous Medal with natural stones, such as the Miraculous Medal with lapis lazuli or the one with rubies and sapphires. All are Khartes' own design, handmade in Spain, with 18K gold plating and adjustable chain included.

You have a complete guide, with frequently asked questions before buying, in the Miraculous Medal: what it means and how to choose yours. And a tip from us: write to us on the product page why you are giving it to them and we will write it by hand on a card, for free. It is what will make them keep it for life.

Facts you can check

  • The first apparition to Catherine Labouré was on the night of July 18 to 19, 1830 and the Virgin appeared to her again on November 27, 1830; the first medals were minted in 1832 and people started calling it the "Miraculous Medal" because of the graces attributed. Source
  • Catherine Labouré was a novice of the Daughters of Charity and was canonized in 1947 by Pius XII; the inscription of the medal is the invocation to Mary conceived without sin. Source
  • The feast of the Virgin of the Miraculous Medal is November 27. Source · Its novena is prayed especially in the days before, from November 18 to 26. Source

The most beautiful medals in the world are at Khartes.

Marian and Bárbara


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