Florian was a distinguished officer during the early fourth century, in what is now Austria. He was known for his bravery, and according to some sources, it is reasonably certain that he once miraculously saved a town from burning by throwing a single bucket of water on the blaze. He practiced his Christianity in secret until the emperor Diocletian commanded that all Christian churches and books be burned; Florian then openly professed his faith and gave himself up to the Roman authorities. He was sentenced to be burned to death, so he stood defiantly atop the wood pile and challenged the soldiers to get started, declaring: 'I will climb up to heaven on the flames!' Becoming fearful of Florian and his God, they decided to drown him instead. His body was raised up by the waves and washed up on a rock, where an eagle stood guard to protect it until a pious woman retrieved the body. Florian is the patron saint of firefighters, chimney sweeps, Austria and Poland, and is also invoked for protection against flood, water damage and drowning. His feast day is May 4.

An ideal gift for firefighters, this St Florian medal features the saint dressed in a soldier's uniform, cradling a burning building in his right arm and holding in his left hand a shield emblazoned with the cross. Crafted in fine sterling silver, with diamond cut accents to add a touch of sparkle! The medal measures 3/4 inch in diameter (about the size of a penny) and comes with an 18 inch long, clasped stainless steel chain, rhodium coated to help preserve its shine. Packaged in a green velvet hinged box, ready for gift giving!