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Medallion Necklace
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84 / 100
ProductScore
Materials: 18K gold vermeil over recycled sterling silver; hand-engraved medallion detail
View on Missoma →The Verdict
Missoma's Medallion Necklace earns a B+ ProductScore of 84/100 — a gold vermeil medallion pendant that channels old-world coin jewelry with modern proportions. The 18K gold vermeil over sterling silver construction justifies the price, and the weight feels genuinely luxurious, though the medallion trend's saturation means it faces stiff competition.
Score Breakdown
What Customers Say
Based on 3,800 mentions across social media and review platforms
The Medallion Necklace is one of Missoma's most-tagged products on Instagram, frequently seen in influencer flat-lays and outfit posts. Reddit reviewers praise the weight and vermeil quality, comparing it favorably to fine jewelry alternatives. The coin medallion trend means competing options are abundant, but Missoma's execution is consistently rated among the best.
"The weight of this necklace is what sold me. It feels like real gold — substantial and luxurious. I've had it for a year and the vermeil is holding up beautifully."
Reddit r/jewelry
"Bought this after seeing it on every influencer. The hype is justified — the engraving detail is beautiful and the chain quality is noticeably better than cheaper alternatives."
Google Reviews
"Love the necklace but $159 for vermeil feels steep when brands like Ana Luisa offer similar quality for less. You're paying for the Missoma brand name."
Trustpilot
"The medallion detail is gorgeous up close but reads as a simple gold disc from any distance. Not sure the intricate engraving justifies the price if no one can see it."
Reddit r/femalefashionadvice
"This is my go-to necklace. It elevates every outfit and I constantly get asked if it's real gold. The vermeil quality is genuinely impressive."
Google Reviews
"Stacks perfectly with the Initial Charm Necklace at different lengths. Missoma clearly designs their pieces to work as a system, which I appreciate."
Reddit r/jewelry
Pros & Cons
Strengths
- + 18K gold vermeil provides a richer gold tone than 14K alternatives
- + Substantial weight creates a premium feel that reads as fine jewelry
- + Hand-engraved medallion detail adds artisanal character
- + Designed to integrate with Missoma's layering system for effortless multi-necklace styling
- + Recycled sterling silver base and B Corp certified brand
Trade-offs
- − At $159, the price is at the upper end of the vermeil market
- − Medallion trend saturation means many similar options exist at lower price points
- − Engraved detail is only visible up close, limiting visual impact at distance
- − Vermeil construction means it will eventually wear through despite the quality
Specifications
| Metal | 18K gold vermeil over recycled sterling silver |
| Gold Layer | 5 micron thickness |
| Chain Length | 18 inches with 2-inch extender |
| Pendant Diameter | 0.7 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 9 grams |
| Closure | Lobster claw clasp |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Missoma jewelry good quality?
How does Missoma's gold vermeil compare to solid gold?
Can I layer the Missoma Medallion Necklace with other necklaces?
Is Missoma a sustainable jewelry brand?
Full Review
Missoma’s Medallion Necklace occupies the sweet spot of the “demi-fine” jewelry market — high enough quality to feel like an investment, accessible enough to buy without agonizing. The medallion pendant has become something of a modern classic, and Missoma’s version is among the best executions available.
Design & Craftsmanship
The medallion features hand-engraved detailing that draws from antique coin motifs — radiating lines, botanical elements, and geometric borders create visual depth on the 0.7-inch disc. The engraving catches light at different angles, giving the pendant a tactile, artisanal quality that mass-produced stamped alternatives lack.
At 9 grams total weight, the necklace has genuine heft. This is a considered design choice — Missoma uses substantial chain links and a solid pendant construction that registers as “real” on the neck. Pick up a Missoma piece alongside a typical fashion jewelry necklace and the weight difference is immediately apparent.
The 18K Vermeil Difference
Missoma’s use of 18K (rather than 14K) gold vermeil at 5-micron thickness is a meaningful quality differentiator. The 18K gold produces a richer, warmer gold tone than 14K options — closer to the deep yellow of traditional fine jewelry. The 5-micron thickness is double the industry-standard 2.5 microns, translating directly to a longer-lasting finish.
In practical terms, this means Missoma’s vermeil pieces typically outlast competitors like Ana Luisa or Gorjana by a significant margin. Long-term reviewers report 1-3 years of daily wear before any signs of the gold layer thinning — impressive for any vermeil product.
Value Proposition
At $159, the Medallion Necklace sits at the upper boundary of what most people consider “affordable” jewelry. It’s measurably more expensive than similar medallion pendants from Ana Luisa ($60-80) or Gorjana ($70-100). The premium buys you thicker gold, heavier construction, and Missoma’s design cachet — whether those justify the markup is a personal calculation.
Compared to solid gold alternatives, however, $159 looks like a bargain. A comparable 18K solid gold medallion pendant from a traditional jeweler would start at $500-800, making Missoma’s offering roughly 70% less while delivering a visually similar experience.
Who Should Buy This
The Medallion Necklace is ideal for someone ready to graduate from fast-fashion jewelry to something with genuine material quality — but not yet ready for the solid gold price commitment. It’s a necklace that anchors a layered stack, works as a standalone statement, and holds up to daily wear with grace.
