The Miraculous Medal was originally called the Medal of the Immaculate Conception, but, because of the numerous accounts of miracles by those who wore it, people began to call it the Miraculous Medal, and the name stuck.

It is believed that a person wearing the medal around his or her neck will receive protection and graces from the Virgin Mary herself. If the wearer beholds this medal with confidence, they can expect their prayers and faith to be heard.

A common misconception about the Miraculous Medal is that it’s a “good luck” charm. Instead of luck, this medal's power is evidence of the wearer’s faith and trust in his or her own prayers.

The main significance of this piece of jewelry is the belief that wearing it will bring special graces from the Virgin Mary. It is often worn to help strengthen the faith of a person in the Catholic tradition, but can be worn by anyone with a Christian affiliation and a respect for the Blessed Mother. The medal is also worn by those looking to draw closer to their faith or those experiencing hard times in their personal life.

Upon a closer look of the design, we can uncover the message St. Catherine received from Virgin Mary nearly two centuries ago:

Front Side:
Mary stands on a dome, crushing a serpent beneath her feet. Describing the original vision, Catherine said the Blessed Mother appeared radiant as a sunrise, "in all her perfect beauty."

Rays shoot out from Mary's hands, which she told Catherine, "symbolize the graces I shed upon those who ask for them."

Words from the vision form an oval frame around Mary: "O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee."Reverse side:

The "M" is an abbreviation for "Mary". The cross represents the sacrifice of Jesus.

The twelve stars disperse around the perimeter are for the apostles.

The two hearts are for the immaculate heart of the Virgin Mary and for the sacred heart of Jesus.

Here you can also read The Story of the Miraculous Virgin Medal