What is a baptism Medal ?
A baptism medal is a traditional gift given to a child during their christening or baptism ceremony, whether religious or secular. It is most often offered by the godfather and godmother, chosen by the parents to guide and support their child throughout life. This symbolic piece of jewelry marks the child’s entry into a cherished community, whether spiritual or familial.
A baptism medal can also be paired with a baptism bracelet, further enhancing its significance. For godparents, the medal represents their commitment and moral responsibility toward their godchild. In Catholic tradition, it is a promise to support the child in their spiritual journey and to help them grow in faith and values. Much like a wedding ring symbolizes union and devotion, a catholic baptism medal embodies protection, respect, and lifelong guidance.
A symbol that transcends tradition
While Catholic baptism still carries deep religious meaning, an increasing number of families are opting for civil christenings. This modern ceremony is a beautiful way to introduce the child to their extended family and loved ones, creating a protective and supportive circle that will accompany them through life.
Over the years, civil baptisms have gained popularity, allowing families to celebrate their child’s arrival in a more personal and unique way, free from religious formalities. Beyond tradition, the event becomes a joyful gathering centered around the child.
Regardless of the type of baptism, the meaning of the christening medal remains unchanged: it symbolizes the unbreakable bond between the child and their godparents. Offering a baptism medal is a heartfelt promise to always be present, a gesture of love and dedication. Even in a secular ceremony, it remains the ultimate baptism gift.
Today, many families prefer simple yet timeless designs, such as the elegant and meaningful motifs you will find at Atelier Aismée. Our collection highlights symbols that transcend faith, celebrating childhood, love, and protection.
The history of civil baptism
For the curious, here’s a brief history of republican baptism, also known as civil baptism. This tradition emerged during the French Revolution in the 18th century, alongside civil marriage, as a way to transfer key life ceremonies from religious institutions to the newly established Republic. Before this, all major rites were conducted in churches.
A civil baptism is officiated at the town hall by the mayor or an appointed official. It symbolizes the child’s entry into the broader community of citizens rather than a religious congregation. However, it has never held any legal status, and this remains true today.
How to choose the perfect baptism medal ?
Now that you understand the history behind different baptism traditions, here are some key tips to help you select the most meaningful baptism medal.
Traditionally, gold is the preferred metal for baptism jewelry, but we also offer beautiful designs in sterling silver and rose gold. Since a baptism medal is a lifelong keepsake, it is essential to choose a durable, high-quality chain. At Atelier Aismée, all our medals are made with 18-carat gold plating, ensuring they last a lifetime.
When it comes to design, the choice is entirely personal. For a religious baptism, you may opt for a classic motif such as a saint, dove, Virgin Mary, Saint Christopher, or cross. However, as customs evolve, families are increasingly drawn to delicate and timeless engravings such as the tree of life, representing growth, strength, and protection.
At Atelier Aismée, we have carefully curated universal motifs that celebrate childhood, joy, and love. To make your gift truly unique, we offer personalized engravings with the child's name and a significant date. This could be the baptism date, symbolizing their official welcome into the community, or their birth date, marking their first step into the world—a meaningful choice that we particularly cherish.
Who should offer the baptism bedal ?
Tradition dictates that the godfather and godmother present the child with a baptism medal, reflecting the lifelong connection they will share. However, there are no strict rules—every family is unique.
In some cases, grandparents or even parents may choose to offer the medal, either due to personal preference or financial reasons. For civil ceremonies, where there may not be official godparents, the decision is even more flexible. What matters most is the sentiment behind the gift. The only golden rule? Respect the wishes of the child’s parents.
Why choose Le Petit Bola for your precious keepsake ?
At Le Petit Bola, we take immense pride in crafting exquisite baptism jewelry with the utmost care and dedication. All our baptism medals are handcrafted in France, using premium materials that are both eco-friendly and safe for sensitive skin.
Each 20mm christening medal is paired with a 45cm chain, designed without nickel, lead, or radium to ensure absolute safety. Your custom engraving is delicately etched in our Drôme workshop, near Valence, by our skilled artisans.
Trust our passionate team: Émilie, our talented jewelry designer, and Cynthia & Océane, our expert engravers, who handle every detail with precision and love. Every order is packaged with utmost care, ensuring that your cherished gift arrives in perfect condition because at Le Petit Bola, we know that a message of love is the most precious gift of all.
Don't hesitate any longer, follow our expert guidance and choose an Le Petit Bola christening medal for your little one. These beautiful baptism medals also make an unforgettable baby gift, sure to be treasured for a lifetime.
