Polished Edge. A medallic item whose edge is polished to a reflective surface. Such items are usually made by jewelry manufacturing firms; the edge is polished and sometimes other parts of the medallic item as well – as lettering and some relief – in contrast to antique or other finish. A polished edge makes a medallic piece more difficult to pick up or hold by human fingers; it should never be done on a large or heavy medal. The example illustrated – the Louisiana Grand Lodge Centennial Medal of 1912 – was struck in bronze, goldplated and edge polished. It was intended to be hung from a ribbon drape so not to have the difficult of picking it up with the fingers. It was made by the Robbins Company of Attleboro, Massachusetts. See jewelry finish.