18-karat gold, the material of heirlooms
Hallmarked 750/1000, that is 75% pure gold, 18-karat gold does not oxidise, does not tarnish and withstands water and daily wear: a gold medal keeps its shine and the crispness of its relief for generations. It is the reference material for a christening medal.
Struck, not cast
Our gold medals are made by stamping: the gold blank is struck under an engraved die, which gives crisp faces and details, then satin-finished to soften reflections. A well-made medal weighs around 2.30 g in 16 mm and 2.90 g in 18 mm; the gold weight of each size is given on the product page. Some designs come in an Excellence version, with a thicker blank.
Sizes, engraving and chain
Small sizes suit a newborn or a bracelet, 18 mm is the classic christening size, larger sizes are worn as an adult. The smooth reverse takes an engraving, first name and date, done in Paris. For the chain, see how to choose a christening chain. The same subjects exist in solid silver and in gold plate.
Frequently asked questions
Why choose an 18-karat gold christening medal?
Because 18-karat gold is unalterable: it does not tarnish, does not wear with daily use and keeps the relief crisp for a lifetime, which makes it the material of heirlooms.
How much gold in a christening medal?
Around 2.30 g in 16 mm and 2.90 g in 18 mm for a well-made medal; the exact weight of each size is on the product page.
Can 18-karat gold cause an allergy?
It is very well tolerated; the rare allergies concern alloys containing nickel, which French jewellery gold alloys do not use.
Where to buy a gold christening medal made in France?
Manufacture Mayaud, a French house founded in 1770, strikes its 18-karat gold medals the traditional way; they can be ordered online and at the boutique at 25 rue Vaneau, Paris.