Some vintage religious medals are beautiful.
Others are truly unforgettable.
This remarkable Virgin Mary Plique-à-Jour Vintage Gold Plated Pendant by Augis belongs firmly in the second category.
Created in France during the 1920s–1930s and attributed to the renowned French house of A. Augis, this extraordinary devotional pendant showcases one of the most coveted enameling techniques in jewelry history—plique-à-jour enamel. Combined with a striking high-relief profile of the Virgin Mary and an impressive statement size, it represents a rare opportunity for collectors and admirers of antique religious jewelry.
More than a devotional object, this pendant is a work of art.
Its luminous blue enamel glows when touched by light, creating an effect that has captivated collectors for generations.
A Masterpiece from the Golden Age of French Religious Jewelry
French devotional jewelry experienced a remarkable period of creativity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Artisans combined religious symbolism with advanced metalworking and enameling techniques, creating pieces that were intended not only for worship but also for personal adornment and family inheritance.
This pendant beautifully reflects that tradition.
Dating from approximately the 1920s to 1930s, it captures the elegance, craftsmanship, and spiritual devotion that characterized French jewelry of the era.
Every detail reveals the hand of a skilled artisan.
Every curve reflects a commitment to artistry that is increasingly difficult to find today.
The Beauty of the Virgin Mary Profile
At the center of this medal is a beautifully sculpted profile of the Virgin Mary.
• Executed in high relief
• Richly detailed and deeply expressive
• Likely inspired by the celebrated religious engravings of Penin
• Surrounded by vibrant translucent enamel
The sculpting gives the medal remarkable depth.
As light moves across the surface, the facial features emerge with extraordinary clarity and softness.
The result feels both devotional and artistic—a rare balance that collectors appreciate.
What Is Plique-à-Jour Enamel?
One of the most fascinating aspects of this pendant is its use of plique-à-jour enamel.
For many collectors, this single feature makes the piece highly desirable.
Unlike traditional enamel work, plique-à-jour enamel contains no solid metal backing behind the colored glass.
Instead:
• Light passes directly through the enamel
• Colors appear illuminated from within
• The effect resembles miniature stained glass
• Every viewing angle creates a slightly different appearance
Here’s the thing.
Creating plique-à-jour enamel is extraordinarily difficult.
The process requires immense precision, patience, and technical expertise.
Many pieces fail during production because the enamel can crack or collapse before completion.
That is one reason authentic antique examples remain so collectible today.
Deep Blue Enamel That Comes Alive in the Light
The rich blue enamel surrounding the Virgin Mary creates one of the pendant's most striking visual features.
When held near natural light, the color seems almost alive.
• Vibrant sapphire-blue tones
• Beautiful translucency
• Exceptional preservation
• Consistent color throughout
Collectors often compare the appearance to Gothic cathedral stained glass.
The effect is subtle indoors but dramatic when sunlight touches the enamel.
It is impossible not to notice.
Signed by the Renowned House of A. Augis
Collectors of French medals immediately recognize the name A. Augis.
The Augis workshop earned a respected reputation for producing religious medals, commemorative pieces, and fine jewelry throughout the twentieth century.
Owning an Augis piece offers more than aesthetic beauty.
It provides:
• Historical provenance
• French craftsmanship
• Collectible value
• Artistic significance
The association with Augis adds another layer of desirability to an already exceptional pendant.
A Rare Statement Size
Many religious medals from this era are relatively small.
This example is anything but.
Specifications include:
• Pendant diameter: 43 mm
• Weight: approximately 33 grams
• Substantial presence when worn
• Exceptional visual impact
This larger format allows the sculptural details and enamel work to be appreciated fully.
It feels significant in the hand and equally impressive when worn.
Complete with Original Vintage Rolled Gold Chain
One detail that collectors especially appreciate is completeness.
This pendant remains paired with its original vintage rolled gold chain.
• Chain length: 53 cm (21 inches)
• Period appropriate
• Ready to wear immediately
• Preserves historical authenticity
Finding antique pendants with their original chain is increasingly uncommon.
This complete presentation enhances both collectibility and visual appeal.
Preserved in Exceptional Vintage Condition
Considering its age, the condition is extraordinary.
The pendant has survived nearly a century while retaining:
• Strong gold-plated finish
• Excellent relief details
• Vibrant enamel coloration
• Structural integrity
• Original vintage character
Many examples from this period show significant enamel loss or damage.
This pendant remains remarkably well preserved.
Why Collectors Seek Pieces Like This
Collectors are increasingly drawn toward pieces that combine multiple desirable qualities.
This pendant offers:
• Religious significance
• French heritage
• Rare enameling techniques
• Augis attribution
• Original chain
• Exceptional condition
Finding all of these characteristics in a single piece is uncommon.
That rarity makes this pendant especially appealing for serious collectors.
Ideal for Collectors and Enthusiasts
This pendant is particularly suited for:
• Collectors of antique religious medals
• French jewelry enthusiasts
• Catholic devotional collections
• Art Nouveau and enamel collectors
• Heirloom jewelry lovers
• Vintage fashion collectors
Its beauty extends beyond religious significance.
It stands comfortably as an artistic treasure in its own right.
Conclusion
The Virgin Mary Plique-à-Jour Vintage Gold Plated Pendant by Augis is a remarkable example of French devotional artistry at its finest.
Combining a beautifully sculpted Virgin Mary profile, luminous blue plique-à-jour enamel, substantial proportions, and the prestige of the Augis name, it represents a rare and highly collectible piece of vintage jewelry history.
Whether acquired for faith, appreciation of fine craftsmanship, or serious collecting, this pendant offers something increasingly rare in today's world—authentic artistry preserved through generations.
It is not simply a medal.
It is a piece of history that still shines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is plique-à-jour enamel?
Plique-à-jour is a rare enameling technique in which translucent enamel is suspended without a metal backing. Light passes through the enamel, creating an effect similar to stained glass.
Who was A. Augis?
A. Augis was a respected French jeweler and medalist known for producing fine religious medals, commemorative pieces, and collectible jewelry throughout the twentieth century.
How old is this pendant?
The pendant dates to approximately the 1920s–1930s, making it nearly a century old.
Does the pendant include its original chain?
Yes. The pendant comes complete with its original vintage rolled gold chain measuring approximately 53 cm (21 inches).
Is this suitable for collectors?
Absolutely. The combination of Augis attribution, plique-à-jour enamel, exceptional condition, and original chain makes it highly desirable among collectors of antique French religious jewelry.