Organizers of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games have revealed the design for the Olympic and Paralympic medals, incorporating a unique element: metal fragments sourced from the iconic Eiffel Tower.
The unveiling ceremony, held on February 8th, showcased a fusion of creativity and heritage, symbolizing the essence of the host city, Paris, and the Games.
Each medal will feature a hexagonal token forged from iron extracted from the Eiffel Tower, a tangible piece of France’s rich history. This innovative concept aims to provide athletes with a cherished memento, encapsulating the spirit of their experience and accomplishments.
Paris 2024 collaborated with its Athletes’ Commission and the craftsmanship of Chaumet, a renowned jewelry house under the LVMH Group, to bring this vision to life. The involvement of athletes in the design process helped ensure that the medals resonate deeply with those who strive for excellence on the world stage.
The design intricately incorporates elements representing both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
a complete breakdown of the medal design
Front Design
- The front of the medal features a hexagonal shape, paying homage to the iconic architecture of the Eiffel Tower and symbolizing France’s distinctive identity.
- At the center of the medal lies a polished token, crafted from iron extracted from the Eiffel Tower during renovations. This unique feature serves as a tangible connection to Paris and its renowned landmark.
- Surrounding the iron token are discs of gold, silver, or bronze, crinkled to reflect light and add depth to the design.
- The Olympic medals bear the image of the ancient Greek goddess of victory, Nike, charging forward, while the Paralympic medals depict a view of the Eiffel Tower from underneath. Both designs evoke a sense of triumph and resilience.
Back Design
- The reverse side of the medal showcases the Paris 2024 logo, stamped alongside symbols representing the Olympic rings or the Paralympic Agitos. These elements emphasize the unity and inclusivity of the Games.
- A small representation of the Eiffel Tower is featured on the back of the Olympic medals, further highlighting the host city’s cultural significance.
- For the Paralympic medals, the Paris 2024 logo is inscribed in Braille, honoring Louis Braille’s contribution to the visually impaired community and promoting accessibility in sports.
Size and Material
- The medals measure 85 millimeters across and 9.2 millimeters thick.
- Crafted from recycled materials, the medals embody Paris 2024’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
- The gold medals, weighing 529 grams, are plated with 6 grams of gold, while the silver medals weigh 525 grams, and the bronze medals weigh 455 grams.
- Each medal is presented in a dark-blue box from Chaumet, the Paris-based jewelry house responsible for the design, accompanied by a certificate from the Eiffel Tower Operating Co., certifying the authenticity of the iron token.
As Tony Estanguet, President of Paris 2024, aptly stated, “It’s the opportunity for the athletes to bring back a piece of Paris with them.” The medals not only celebrate athletic achievement but also serve as a lasting connection to the host city and its iconic landmark.
With less than 200 days remaining until the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, the world awaits with high anticipation to see the athletes compete for these iconic and carefully crafted medals.
