HEAVY 77 Gram Vintage Our Lady of the Guard Virgin Mary ID Bracelet by Ferdinand for Sale

HEAVY 77 Gram Vintage Our Lady of the Guard Virgin Mary ID Bracelet by Ferdinand For Sale

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HEAVY 77 Gram Vintage Our Lady of the Guard Virgin Mary ID Bracelet by Ferdinand:
$745.00

Introducing a Masterpiece of Sterling Silver Craftsmanship: The Ferdinand Our Lady of the Guard Bracelet

The Piece Itself:

In the world of fine jewelry, there are pieces that catch your eye, and then there are pieces that captivate your soul. The Ferdinand Our Lady of the Guard Bracelet falls squarely into the latter category. Crafted back in the '90s by the renowned jeweler Ferdinand, who operated from the Point Dume area, this bracelet is an embodiment of substance, artistry, and a touch of spirituality.

Ferdinand was known for designs that exuded strength and weight, and this bracelet is no exception. In a world where jewelry often feels fragile and lightweight, Ferdinand's creations were refreshingly substantial. This bracelet, in particular, is a testament to that ethos, designed to make you feel its worth when cradled in your hand.

What sets this piece apart is its unique religious motif, depicting the lesser-known Christian story of Our Lady of the Guard. Let's delve deeper into this captivating story:

In the 13th century, along the rugged coast of Marseilles, France, the lives of fishermen and sailors were often at the mercy of the unpredictable Mediterranean Sea. One fateful day, a lone fisherman found himself caught in a fierce and perilous storm far from the safety of the shoreline. The tempestuous waves thrashed his small boat, and all hope seemed lost as he faced the very real possibility of being consumed by the unforgiving sea.

In his moment of despair, the fisherman cast his gaze towards a mountain that overlooked the city and the harbor. On this mountain, there was a solitary rock formation that stood out against the landscape. To his astonishment, he saw the figure of a woman, radiantly dressed in white, standing atop that rock. It was a vision that defied explanation, a sight that stirred the deepest recesses of his soul.

In that moment of desperation, the fisherman began to pray fervently to this heavenly apparition. He implored her intercession and protection, asking for deliverance from the impending doom that loomed over him. And then, as if in response to his plea, a remarkable and miraculous transformation occurred. The storm that had raged with unrelenting fury began to abate. The tumultuous sea, once a force of destruction, now grew calm and serene. The fisherman's boat, which had teetered on the brink of catastrophe, steadied itself, and he found himself safely guided back to the shore.

This extraordinary incident was not an isolated event. Other sailors and fishermen in the area reported similar experiences. They too had witnessed the luminous figure of the Blessed Mother, Our Lady, standing on the rocky perch overlooking Marseilles. They too had felt the miraculous calming of the tempest and the miraculous deliverance from the brink of disaster.

The story of Our Lady of the Guard, or "Notre-Dame de la Garde" in French, thus became a testament to the power of faith and divine intervention. The basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, known locally as "la Bonne Mère" or "the Good Mother," was later built on that very mountain where the Blessed Mother had appeared. It became a symbol of protection and a place of pilgrimage for the faithful, overlooking the city of Marseilles and watching over those who ventured out to sea.

In your exquisite Ferdinand bracelet, this remarkable story is immortalized in sterling silver, a tribute to the enduring faith and the miraculous protection that Our Lady of the Guard has offered to seafarers for centuries. Wearing this bracelet is not just an adornment; it's a connection to a sacred story of hope, salvation, and divine presence.

The central station features "Our Lady of the Guard" holding the Christ Child, with the coastline and town of Marseilles in the background. The level of detail is unparalleled, and both figures are three-dimensional, adding depth and significance to the portrayal. Above the visage of Mary and the Christ Child, the text "N.D. De La Garde P.P.N" pays homage to Notre-Dame de la Garde, a Catholic basilica in Marseille.

But it's not just the religious imagery that makes this bracelet exceptional; it's also the intricate links that comprise it. Handcrafted from thick sterling silver, the circle links are chunky and unique, each slightly different from the next, showcasing the bracelet's artisanal construction. The lobster claw clasp, also made of solid sterling silver, ensures easy wear and removal.

Turn the bracelet over, and you'll find a bright canvas of gleaming sterling silver, the perfect backdrop for the hallmarks that signify its authenticity: "FERDINAND" and "925" for sterling silver.

Now, let's talk about the weight. This bracelet tips the scales at an astounding 77 grams of solid sterling silver, a testament to its impressive craftsmanship. The central silver station measures approximately 4.25 cm across, 1.5 cm in height, and nearly half a centimeter thick. It's designed to comfortably fit wrists up to about 7.25 inches.

NOTE: As much as it pains me to part with this remarkable piece, as an 80-year-old man, it is too heavy for my now fragile wrist. My hope is that whoever acquires this bracelet will cherish it as I have, and pass it down through their family for generations to come. This bracelet is not just jewelry; it's a legacy waiting to be embraced. Don't miss the opportunity to make it yours and carry its history forward.

~If you have any further questions, or would like to see any additional photos, please do not hesitate to reach out in the form of an email. I will get back to you promptly.

~Will ship overseas, but not responsible for any customs fees incurred.