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Catholic Supply of St. Louis, Inc.


Serving the Faithful Since 1960

Shop our Beautiful Religious Medals Selection of Saint Jewelry! We have a wonderful selection of Patron Saint Medals, Crucifix and Cross necklaces, Military Medals, and Patron Saint Pendants. Wearing saint jewelry is a popular tradition among faithful Catholics. Saint medals are the most common kind of patron saint jewelry. Patron saint medals make wonderful gift ideas that encourage us to a life of holiness like the saints. Many medals of patron saints are suitable for engraving and make great gifts for Baptism, Confirmation, First Holy Communion, Sports, Service men and women, or any other occasion.

Many saints have special meanings and are protectors over certain topics- for a complete list CLICK HERE.

We personalize many of our patron saint medals and pendants. Just look for the custom engraving option as you are browsing our religious medals. Our patron saint medals, saint necklaces, crucifix pendants, and cross necklaces come with a lifetime warranty from Bliss Manufacturing. If your Bliss saint medal ever tarnishes or a defect is found, your religious medal will be immediately replaced at no charge.


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Assorted 3/4 Inch Oxidized Medals from Italy, Sold Each
Price: $0.95
Item #: PT15215 -

    Available in the following subjects: Saint Padre Pio, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Saint Christopher, Saint Joseph, Our Lady of Grace, Saint Anthony of Padua, Saint Michael the Archangel, Saint Francis of Assisi.These medals are perfect to add to a chain or bracelet. Patron saint oxidized medal, medal only.Measures 3/4 inchMade in Italy.

    Double-sided, Two-tone St. Benedict Medal
    QTY DISCOUNTS
    Price: $1.95-$12.95
    Item #: PT14979 -

      AVAILABLE IN 3 SIZES! Silver-tone and Gold-tone Double Sided Saint Benedict MedalMADE IN ITALYAs St. Benedict is invoked against evil, his medals are considered particularly effective for warding off evil. The medal itself has an important prayer used in the Rite of Exorcism, in abbreviated form, on one side and an image of St. Benedict on the other.

      Wood Tau Crosses on Brown Cord Necklaces
      Price: $3.95-$5.95
      Item #: PT15226 -

        These high quality olive wood Tau Crosses are made in Italy and are available in various sizes and styles. These make great gifts for retreats or class distribution. Because we import these from Italy ourselves, our inventory varies from time to time. The styles shown on the drop down option menu are the styles we have available currently. Individually poly-bagged.Made in Italy You may wonder what is the meaning of a Tau cross and why is it shaped as so? Well, the Tau is the last letter...

        Olive Wood Benedictine Crucifix Necklace
        QTY DISCOUNTS
        Price: $8.95
        Item #: 11454 -

          Olive Wood Benedictine Crucifix 2 1/2" Olive Wood Crucifix with Benedictine medal. Such detail on a small piece, this necklace is a perfect gift for that special occasion. Crucifix comes on 24" cord. Made in Italy.

          St. Benedict Small Round 0.70 Inch Oxidized Medal
          QTY DISCOUNTS
          Price: $0.99
          Item #: 130815 -

            MADE IN ITALY These medals are perfect to add to a chain or bracelet.Patron saint oxidized medal, medal only.Measures 0.70" THESE COME FROM VARIOUS SUPPLIERS IN ITAY AND MEDAL DESIGNS VARY SLIGHTLY - WE CANNOT SPECIFY - SHOWN ARE SOME OF THE WAYS THIS MEDAL MAY COME

            St. Benedict Sterling Silver Crucifix on 18" Chain
            Price: $69.95
            Item #: 14735 -

              STERLING SILVER ST. BENEDICT 18" RHODIUM PLATED CHAIN DELUXE GIFT BOX INCLUDEDDIMENSION: 1 1/2" X 3/4"MADE IN THE USAAs St. Benedict is invoked against evil, his medals are considered particularly effective for warding off evil. The medal itself has an important prayer used in the Rite of Exorcism, in abbreviated form, on one side and an image of St. Benedict on the other.

              Catholic Saints Blessing Bracelet with Story Card
              Price: $19.95
              Item #: 111619 -

                This bracelet is hand-made in Medjugorje. Each bracelet is made using 10 Patron Saint Medals. Black Thread. One size fits most. HAND MADE MEDJUGORJE WITH BEADS FROM ITALY Saints medals included on this bracelet: St. Pope John Paul II, St. Benedict, St. Therese, St. Padre Pio, St. Michael the Archangel, St. Anthony of Padua, St. Christopher, St. Joseph, St. Francis of Asissi, and St. Mother Teresa.

                St. Christopher 14K Gold Filled Medal on 18" Chain
                Price: $74.95
                Item #: 128831 -

                  A travel protection medallion, this pendant and necklace is made of high quality 14K gold fill and is also available in sterling silver. Saint Christopher is the patron saint of travelers, keeping them safe on their journey. > Charm says "St. Christopher Protect Us" > Pendant measures 22mm in diameter > Looks lovely layered with other necklaces 14K Gold fill is a beautiful alternative to solid gold, as it offers the ideal balance of quality and value. Gold fill pieces can be worn...

                  Sterling Silver Crucifix Necklace in a Sailor Anchor Design
                  Price: $79.95
                  Item #: 12499 -

                    Sterling Silver Crucifix Necklace in a Sailor Anchor DesignMADE IN THE USA PackagingGift Boxed. MeasurementsCross size: 1 1/8" Length (includes jump ring)Chain Size: 24" Length Product DescriptionSterling Silver Crucifix Necklacein a sailor anchor design. The crucifixpendant is attached to a 24" silver chain.

                    Gold Saint Charms - Assorted
                    Price: $9.99
                    Item #: 135801 -

                      These stunning charms come in a variety of colors, perfect for expressing your faith and love for Christianity. These charms are a must-have for any fashion-forward believer. 18K Gold Plating over Brass EnamelSize: about 18x16x2.5mm All charms come with 18 gauge 24k gold plated stainless steel jump rings, pre-installed to each charm. Our jewelry is carefully curated to make you feel beautiful and confident. We take pride in utilizing premium components sourced from high-quality materials. •...

                      St. Benedict Earrings
                      Price: $18.00
                      Item #: COL-IN-40 -

                        The St. Benedict medal has become one of the most popular medals and even non-catholics seem to enjoy all jewelry depicting this Saint. The medal is one of the oldest and most honored medals used by Catholics due to the belief in its power against evil. The use of any religious article is intended as a means of reminding one of God and of inspiring a willingness and desire to serve God.Pewter medallion surrounded by brass, nickle plated fish hook earrings.Platinum grey toned crystal drop...

                        Gold Saint Benedict Medal Charm
                        Price: $9.99
                        Item #: 135794 -

                          This Saint Benedict Medal Charm is the perfect addition to any necklace or bracelet. With its intricate design and symbolism of faith, this charm serves as a beautiful reminder of one's spiritual journey. Stainless SteelSize: about 28.5x25x2mm. All charms come with 18 gauge 24k gold plated stainless steel jump rings, pre-installed to each charm. Our jewelry is carefully curated to make you feel beautiful and confident. We take pride in utilizing premium components sourced from high-quality...

                          Gold Saint Benedict Square Charm
                          Price: $9.99
                          Item #: 135795 -

                            The Saint Benedict Square Charm is a symbol of faith. Its clean and precise design conveys a sense of devotion and spiritual strength, making it the perfect addition to any religious jewelry collection. This charm is a timeless representation of one's beliefs. 18K Gold Plated & Platinum Size: about 17.4x15x2mm All charms come with 18 gauge 24k gold plated stainless steel jump rings, pre-installed to each charm. Our jewelry is carefully curated to make you feel beautiful and confident. We take...

                            St. Benedict Two Tone Charm
                            Price: $9.99
                            Item #: 135833 -

                              This gold-plated round charm features a stunning image of Saint Benedict, a powerful symbol of faith and devotion. With intricate detailing and a sleek design, this charm is a beautiful addition to any accessory. Show your devotion and faith with this exquisite piece. 18K Gold Plated/Platinum/BrassChristian CharmSize: about 18x15x3.5mm All charms come with 18 gauge 24k gold plated stainless steel jump rings, pre-installed to each charm. Our jewelry is carefully curated to make you feel...

                              St. Benedict Earrings
                              Price: $16.00
                              Item #: 37106 -

                                The St. Benedict medal has become one of the most popular medals and even non-catholics seem to enjoy all jewelry depicting this Saint. The medal is one of the oldest and most honored medals used by Catholics due to the belief in its power against evil. The use of any religious article is intended as a means of reminding one of God and of inspiring a willingness and desire to serve God. Pewter medallion surrounded by brass, nickle plated fish hook earrings.Shipped Boxed. HAND MADE IN THE USA ...

                                St. Benedict Earrings
                                Price: $18.00
                                Item #: COL-IN-39 -

                                  The medal is one of the oldest and most honored medals used by Catholics due to the belief in its power against evil. The use of any religious article is intended as a means of reminding one of God and of inspiring a willingness and desire to serve God.Pewter medallion surrounded by brass, nickle plated fish hook earrings.Classic blue earrings perfect for everyday! Shipped BoxedHAND MADE IN THE USA

                                  Benedictine Blessing Necklace
                                  Price: $29.95
                                  Item #: 20033 -

                                    Benedictine Necklace, Goldtone Bead
                                    Price: $19.95
                                    Item #: 04004 -

                                      Benedictine Necklace with goldtone medal on 18" chain; Gift BoxedHAND MADE MEDJUGORJE WITH BEAD FROM ITALY

                                      Blessed Carlo Acutis Patron Saint Necklace
                                      Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                      Item #: PT15048 -

                                        Oval Blessed Carlo Acutis Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold Medal on Chain. Blessed Carlo Acutis is the Patron Saint of the Internet/Youth. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry ...

                                        Blessed Carlo Acutis Pendant and Holy Card Set
                                        Price: $14.95
                                        Item #: 130519 -

                                          SILVER OX MEDAL INCLUDES 24" SILVERTONE CHAIN & LAMINATED HOLY CARD

                                          Blessed Caroline Gerhardinger Patron Saint Necklace
                                          Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                          Item #: PT10472 -

                                            Oval Blessed Caroline Gerhardinger Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. Blessed Caroline Gerhardinger is the patron of Purity. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                            Blessed Emilie Tavernier Gamel Patron Saint Necklace
                                            Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                            Item #: PT10604 -

                                              Blessed Emilie Tavernier Gamel Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                              Blessed Herman The Cripple Patron Saint Necklace
                                              Price: $62.95-$2,590.00
                                              Item #: PT10577 -

                                                Blessed Herman The Cripple Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                                Blessed John Henry Newman Patron Saint Necklace
                                                Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                Item #: PT10593 -

                                                  Blessed John Henry Newman Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                                  Blessed Karolina Kozkowna Patron Saint Necklace
                                                  Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                  Item #: PT10474 -

                                                    Oval Blessed Karolina Kozkowna Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. Blessed Karolina Kozkowna is the patron of Virgins and Purity. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry ...

                                                    Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
                                                    Price: $6.95
                                                    Item #: 6003 -

                                                      These durable and colorful charms have been very popular with kids and adults alike. Made of soft PVC(similar to rubber), they can clip on a child's backpack, dad's key chain, mom's purse, and anything else you can think of!Each comes nicely gift packaged as shown, with a brief story of the saint on the backside of the card. Pier Giorgio Frassati was born in 1901 in Turin, Italy. A student activist and lay Dominican, Pier Giorgio devoted his spare time and money to serving the poor. His...

                                                      Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Patron Saint Necklace
                                                      Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                      Item #: PT10469 -

                                                        Oval Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati is the patron of World Youth Day. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry ...

                                                        Blessed Trinity Patron Saint Necklace
                                                        Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                        Item #: PT10443 -

                                                          Oval Blessed Trinity Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                                          Blessed William Joseph Chaminade Charm
                                                          Price: $6.95
                                                          Item #: 131332 -

                                                            In the wake of the French Revolution, William Chaminade founded the Society of Mary to covertly revitalize the faith of his countrymen through small groups in an increasingly hostile France. Feast Day: January 22

                                                            Divine Mercy Patron Saint Necklace
                                                            Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                            Item #: PT10544 -

                                                              Divine Mercy Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                                              Divine Mercy Pendant and Holy Card Set
                                                              Price: $14.95
                                                              Item #: 39404 -

                                                                Divine Mercy Oval Pewter Medal on 24" chain with Laminated Holy Prayer Card.

                                                                Footprints / Cross Patron Saint Necklace
                                                                Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                                Item #: PT10436 -

                                                                  Oval Footprints / Cross Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                                                  Holy Family Patron Saint Necklace
                                                                  Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                                  Item #: PT10423 -

                                                                    Oval Holy Family Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. Holy Family is the patron of families. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                                                    Holy Spirit Patron Saint Necklace
                                                                    Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                                    Item #: PT10320 -

                                                                      Oval Holy Spirit Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. Holy Spirit is the patron of wisdom and understanding. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                                                      Infant of Prague Patron Saint Necklace
                                                                      Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                                      Item #: PT10412 -

                                                                        Oval Infant Of Prague Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. Infant Of Prague is the patron of Children and Schools. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom JewelryThe Infant Jesus of Prague (Czech: Pražské Jezulátko: Spanish: Niño Jesús de Praga) is a 16th-century wax-coated...

                                                                        Lord Is My Shepherd Necklace
                                                                        Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                                        Item #: PT10388 -

                                                                          Oval Lord Is My Shepherd Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain. FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for Exceptional DetailHand Made and Hand Finished by USA ArtisansLifetime Guarantee against tarnishing or breakageUnique, one-of-a kind designsHeirloom Jewelry

                                                                          Miraculous Pendant & Holy Card
                                                                          Price: $14.95
                                                                          Item #: 39429 -

                                                                            Miraculous Oval Pewter Medal on 18" chain with Laminated Holy Prayer Card.

                                                                            Our Lady of Guadalupe Pewter Medal and Prayer Card Set
                                                                            Price: $17.95
                                                                            Item #: 110594 -

                                                                              Our Lady of Guadalupe Pewter Medal and Spanish Prayer Card Set Laminated Card Rhodium Plated Pewter Medal With 18" Plated Chain

                                                                              Our Lady Of Guadalupe Sterling Silver Medal on 18" Chain
                                                                              Price: $61.95
                                                                              Item #: 14512 -

                                                                                Sterling Silver O L Guadalupe Patron Saint Of Mexico And Central America on 18" Rhodium Plated Chain Dimension: 1 9/16" Made in the USA

                                                                                Our Lady of Guadalupe Sterling Silver Medal On 18" Chain
                                                                                Price: $82.50
                                                                                Item #: 31360 -

                                                                                  Our Lady of Guadalupe round medal-pendant.Solid .925 sterling silver.Medal is die struck.Hand polished and engraved by New England Silversmiths.Dimensions: 0.9" x 0.8" (24mm x 20mm)Weight of medal: 3.9 Grams.18" Genuine rhodium plated curb chain.Made in USA.Deluxe velvet gift box.

                                                                                  Our Lady Star of The Sea Pendant
                                                                                  Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                                                  Item #: PT10615 -

                                                                                    Oval Our Lady of Star Of The Sea Pendant. Our Lady of Star Of The Sea is the patron of Sailors.Available Options3/4" Medium MedalSterling Silver Medal on 18" Stainless Steel Chain14KT Gold Filled Medal on 18" Gold Plated ChainSterling Medal Only14KT Gold Filled Medal Only14KT Solid Gold Medal Only (SPECIAL ORDER/NON-RETURNABLE)1" Large MedalSterling Silver Medal on 24" Stainless Steel Chain14KT Gold Filled Medal on 24" Gold Plated ChainSterling Medal Only14KT Gold Filled Medal Only14KT Solid...

                                                                                    Pope Francis Charm
                                                                                    Price: $6.95
                                                                                    Item #: 6001 -

                                                                                      These durable and colorful charms have been very popular with kids and adults alike. Made of soft PVC(similar to rubber), they can clip on a child's backpack, dad's key chain, mom's purse, and anything else you can think of!Each comes nicely gift packaged as shown, with a brief story of the saint on the backside of the card.Dear Jesus, Please bless our Holy Father, Pope Francis. Help him lead the Church to you by his words and example. Give him strength to carry out your work and deliver your...

                                                                                      Sacred Heart of Jesus Pewter Necklace and Holy Card Set
                                                                                      Price: $14.95
                                                                                      Item #: 39439 -

                                                                                        Sacred Heart of Jesus Pewter Necklace and Holy Card Set Pewter Medal Includes 24" Silvertone Chain & Laminated Holy Card

                                                                                        Saint Junipero Serra Charm
                                                                                        Price: $6.95
                                                                                        Item #: 126553 -

                                                                                          Junipero Serra was an 18th-century Franciscan priest whose passionate, charitable missionary work laid the foundation for Spanish colonization of what is now the state of California. When Father Serra met the first native people with whom he would share the Gospel, he kissed the ground and thanked God for the opportunity. In addition to sharing the faith, he taught them agriculture, cattle raising, and arts & crafts. Feast Day: July 1

                                                                                          3/4 Inch Two-Tone Sterling Silver St.Peregrine Medal, Patron Saint of Cancer
                                                                                          Price: $79.95
                                                                                          Item #: 108512 -

                                                                                            3/4 Inch two tone sterling silver St. Peregrine medal, patron of cancer on 20 inch stainless steel rhodium plated chain. The front of the medal has a gold border and stamped image of saint Peregrine with the wording "Saint Peregrine Pray For Us." The back of the medal is blank and flat. Includes an elegant deluxe velour jewelry box.

                                                                                            St. Aaron Patron Saint Necklace
                                                                                            Price: $56.95-$2,590.00
                                                                                            Item #: PT10448 -

                                                                                              St. Aaron Patron Saint Necklace in Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on Chain, Sterling Silver, Gold Plated or 14kt Gold saint medal on ChainSaint Aaron was a monk and abbot at a monastery situated on a remote island. It is said the island could only be reached during low tide. He worked with Saint Malo in France.Chain options:18 inch chain for 3/4 inch saint medals | 24 inch chain for 1 inch saint medals FINE RELIGIOUS JEWELRY MADE IN THE USADie Struck Jewelry for...

                                                                                              St. Abigail Charm
                                                                                              Price: $6.95
                                                                                              Item #: 123734 -

                                                                                                Saint Abigail's story is rich with Irish lore. An angel told her she would find nine deer grazing in the place she was meant to spend her life. Abigail traveled until she found the deer in County Cork. She loved bees and became a beekeeper, using honey to treat the sick. Abigail ministered to the needy until her "soul left her body," represented in Irish legend by a flying bee. Feast Day: February 11 Patronage: Beekeepers, Fertility, Holistic Health, Nature ...

                                                                                                Patron & Protector Information: Our Complete Patron Saint Listing by Meaning: CLICK HERE

                                                                                                A religious medal is usually metallic, cast either in a round or oval shape, depicting the image of our Lord, the Blessed Mother, or another saint. Medals have also commemorated places (e.g. shrines), very important spiritual events in one’s life (e.g. first Communion or Ordination), or major historical events (e.g. a Holy Year, the proclamation of a dogma, or an apparition of the Blessed Mother). These medals are usually designed to be worn around the neck of the person or to be attached to a rosary or key chain.

                                                                                                Archeology has discovered medals bearing the image of St. Peter and St. Paul manufactured in the second century, and of St. Lawrence the Martyr in the fourth century. St. Zeno of Verona (d. 371) recorded the custom of giving religious medals to newly baptized Christians to commemorate their baptism and reception into the Church. A fifth century story of the life of St. Genevieve recounted how St. Germain placed a medal marked with the sign of the cross around her neck to be a physical reminder of her vow of virginity. Pope St. Gregory the Great (d. 604) sent to Queen Theodolind of the Lombards two small reliquaries containing relics of the True Cross and a sentence from the gospel manuscripts to be worn around the neck as a reminder of her duty as a Christian Queen.

                                                                                                The use of religious medals as we know them today arose in the sixteenth century. Pope St. Pius V (d. 1572) began the custom of blessing religious medals and attaching an indulgence to them. For example, in 1566 he blessed medals with the image of Jesus and Mary and granted an indulgence to the faithful who wore them.

                                                                                                Technically, medals are classified as a sacramental: “These are sacred signs which bear a resemblance to the sacraments. They signify effects, particularly of a spiritual nature, which are obtained through the Church’s spiritual intercession. By them men are disposed to receive the chief effect of the sacraments, and various occasions in life are rendered holy” (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, #60). The sacramental prepares a person to receive grace and disposes him to cooperate with it; in this way, the medal reminds us of a holy person, which in turn open us to grace to follow his example. The Enchiridion of Indulgences (1969) affirms “The faithful, who devoutly use an article of devotion (crucifix or cross, rosary, scapular, or medal) properly blessed by any priest, obtain a partial indulgence” (#35).

                                                                                                In all, the wearing of a religious medal is a good, pious practice which keeps us mindful of the protection and love of the image it bears. Moreover, the consciousness of that image should motivate us to fulfill our religious duties and put our faith into action. Just as a blessed wedding ring is a constant physical reminder to the spouse of his or her vows of fidelity and love, so do these medals provide a constant physical reminder of the love and fidelity we share with Almighty God and the communion of saints.

                                                                                                Source: Catholic Straight Answers