Mad For Medallions

Sep 21

Gotta get that coin

They say history repeats itself. Dating all the way back to antiquity, this trend may have taken its sweet time to come around again, but coin necklaces are back in a big way. Once reserved as status symbols for moneyed Greco-Romans who were quite literally wearing their wealth, the modern, more egalitarian take on the trend is still rich with symbolism. A new crop of designers consider the coin a blank canvas across which to ascribe—or inscribe—anything you want to keep close to your heart, be it your star sign or your best intentions.

**Widow’s Mite**

Remnants of the New Testament, widow’s mites are ancient coins—they were the smallest value in circulation at the time. They have come to represent the generosity and humility of the biblical parable of the poor widow, who gave her last coins to help others in need. There’s a certain synergy between this tale and the timeless beauty of this piece set with rose gold and diamonds that showcase designer Judith Arnell’s expertise.
Judith Arnell 14k rose gold widow’s mite and diamond pendant, price upon request at Judith Arnell Jewelers

**Zodiac**

“Aspirational yet accessible” is how designer Anita Ko describes her collection of fine jewelry. Characterized by personal elements and a versatility that transfers seamlessly from day-to-day to red carpet, her pieces have been spotted on the likes of Charlize Theron, Scarlett Johansson, and Michelle Obama. Encircled in diamonds and engraved in relief on 18 karat yellow gold, Ko’s Zodiac pendants truly let your stars shine.
Anita Ko 18k gold and diamond “VIRGO” zodiac coin pendant, $8,200 at Anita Ko

**Il Leone**

London-based jewelry line Alighieri is named for Dante, author of the *Divine Comedy*, and designer Rosh Mahtani’s first collection in 2014 was entirely inspired by the work. She has since probed other epics and adventurers (including Sir Edmund Hilary, one of the first people to summit Everest) in exploring her craft, translating larger-than-life stories into tangible talismans. Each piece, like this Il Leone medallion which represents strength and courage, is truly an objet d'art.
Alighieri 14k gold-plated bronze “Il Leone” necklace, $260 at LOUISAVIAROMA

**Deus**

This delicate necklace from designer Ania Haie proves that sometimes more is more. (Take that theme a step further by styling this piece with others—it’s perfectly proportioned for layering.) While “Deus” is Latin for “deity,” we find it only fitting that the root of the word means “shining,” which this gold-plated choker most certainly does.
Ania Haie 14k gold-plated sterling silver “Deus” necklace, $148 at Danwerke Jewelers

**Mantra**

Not all talismans need be enigmatic. Zoe Chicco, known for her delicate pieces that balance modern and classic, offers a unique take on the trend with her Small Mantra necklaces, which feature an intention inscribed on the coin's surface. Make it your own by choosing between sixteen combinations of mantras and borders (we love “Good things are coming” surrounded by stars as a daily reminder of a bright future).
Zoe Chicco 14k gold “Small Mantra” necklace, $805 at Zoe Chicco

Editor: Samantha Durbin

Market Editor: Rebecca Daly

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