Blog | Embrace the Olympic Spirit: Go for Gold Medallions
Discover the history of triumphant talismans and browse our collection of charms ready to tell your jewelry story today.
As the Summer 2024 Olympics approach, the excitement builds beyond the sports to the rich traditions and symbols that come with them. One such symbol is the gold medallion - a coveted prize in the Olympics and a meaningful adornment throughout history. While athletes compete for their gold medals, you can adorn yourself with your very own medallion or charm, embracing the true spirit of the games and the history of precious, wearable emblems.
Dating back to the ancient civilizations, gold medallions and charms have served as symbols of protection, status, and achievement. In ancient Egypt, these pieces were inscribed with hieroglyphs for divine protection, while in Rome, soldiers were awarded medallions for bravery. Through the Medieval and Renaissance periods, intricately designed medallions celebrated religious devotion and personal milestones. The revival of the modern Olympic Games in 1896 further cemented the gold medallion as a universal symbol of excellence and victory.
Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Today, contemporary jewelry designers continue this legacy, creating intentionally designed charms and medallions that resonate with personal meaning, reflecting celestial themes, protective symbols like evil eyes, and individual milestones. Often becoming family heirlooms, these pieces carry the stories and emotions of those who wore them before, passed down through generations. Whether celebrating an achievement or drawn to their timeless allure, gold medallions remain a meaningful and stylish way to connect with history and tradition.
When it comes to styling gold medallions, layering is key to creating a look that's both elegant and meaningful. Start with a larger medallion as the foundation of your ensemble. Consider pieces by designers like Sylva & Cie’s, Erica Molinari, or Astra, which offer intricate designs with deep symbolic significance. For a bold and luxurious twist, choose a statement diamond bezel pendant featuring an antique diamond. We suggest: the Single Stone Lola or Randi Pendant that connects contemporary craftsmanship with Old European cut natural diamonds hand-faceted hundreds of years ago.
To complete the look, mix and match different types of necklaces: simple gold or silver chains for an elegant touch, beaded necklaces from Chroma for a pop of color, or a diamond tennis choker from Diamonds by G.St to add a hint of glamor higher on the neck. This blend of textures and styles not only elevates your outfit but also narrates a personal story through your choice of layered jewelry.
