Locket Necklaces

A locket is a type of jewelry that typically consists of a small, often decorative, pendant that can be opened to reveal a space inside. This space is designed to hold a keepsake, such as a photograph, a lock of hair, a tiny note, or any small sentimental item. Lockets have been cherished for generations as a way to carry memories and loved ones close to the heart.

A locket necklace, therefore, is a necklace that incorporates a locket as a pendant. The locket is usually suspended from a chain and worn around the neck. The pendant can be made of various materials, including gold, silver, platinum, or even less precious metals, and it often features intricate designs or embellishments on its surface.

Key Features and Types of Lockets:

Designs and Shapes:

Lockets come in a variety of shapes, with heart-shaped and oval lockets being particularly popular. They can have ornate designs, engraved patterns, gemstone accents, or a simple, classic appearance.

Opening Mechanisms:

Lockets can open in various ways, such as hinged lids, snap closures, or sliding compartments, to access the interior space where the keepsake is placed.

Materials:

Lockets can be made of different materials, including gold lockets, silver lockets, or even costume jewelry materials. The choice of material can affect the overall appearance, durability, and cost of the locket.

Interior Compartment:

The interior compartment of the locket is where a small memento or keepsake can be placed, symbolizing a memory, person, or meaningful event.

Symbolism and Sentimental Value:

Sentimental Keepsake:

Lockets are often given or worn to hold a cherished memory, making them deeply sentimental and meaningful.
Closeness to Heart:

Wearing a locket close to the heart signifies the emotional connection and love associated with the keepsake inside.

Gifts of Love:

Lockets are popular gifts for loved ones, especially on special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or as a symbol of love and commitment.

Historical Significance:

Lockets have a rich history dating back centuries. They were particularly popular during the Victorian era, where they were worn as a way to mourn the loss of a loved one, often containing a lock of the deceased person's hair.

A locket necklace, with its ability to encapsulate precious memories and keep loved ones close, continues to be a timeless piece of jewelry cherished by many.

History of the Locket Necklace:

The history of locket-style necklaces is rich and dates back centuries. They have evolved over time in terms of design, materials, and symbolism. Here is a brief overview of their historical journey:

Ancient Origins:

Lockets have ancient origins, with early examples dating back to ancient Egypt, where they were worn as protective amulets and contained small scrolls with religious or mystical inscriptions.
Medieval and Renaissance Eras:

During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, lockets became more ornate and fashionable. They were often used to carry tiny portraits, religious relics, or love tokens.
Victorian Era:

The Victorian era (19th century) saw the peak of locket popularity. Lockets became a significant part of mourning jewelry, allowing individuals to keep a memento of a deceased loved one close to their heart. Hair from the deceased was commonly placed inside the locket.
World Wars and Sentimental Value:

Lockets gained renewed popularity during World War I and World War II. Soldiers would carry lockets with photos of their loved ones as a source of comfort and a reminder of home.
Mid-20th Century:

In the mid-20th century, lockets continued to be a symbol of sentimentality. They often featured photos of loved ones, including family members and sweethearts.
Contemporary Era:

In the modern era, lockets have retained their sentimental value and are cherished as personal keepsakes. They have diversified in design, with lockets now being made in various shapes, materials, and styles.
Popularity Over the Years:

The popularity of locket necklaces has experienced fluctuations over time, influenced by cultural, fashion, and societal trends:

Victorian Era: Lockets reached the height of their popularity during the Victorian era when they were an essential fashion accessory and symbol of mourning.

20th Century: Lockets remained sentimental keepsakes, especially during wartime. They were a way to stay connected with loved ones when separated by conflict.

Contemporary Era: In recent years, lockets have seen a resurgence in popularity, driven by a growing interest in vintage and antique jewelry, as well as a renewed appreciation for sentimental and personalized jewelry.

Today, lockets continue to be cherished as a way to hold cherished memories and loved ones close to the heart. They are often passed down through generations, carrying with them the stories and emotions of those who have worn them. Whether as a fashion statement or a meaningful keepsake, the locket necklace remains a timeless and versatile piece of jewelry.

Shapes, Metals and Making

Oval lockets hold the classic portrait crop and are the most common; round lockets suit faces and modern photographs; heart lockets tie the form to gift occasions; and multi-photo book lockets open into three or four frames for families. Gold filled lockets were the durable standard of the last century and good vintage examples abound; solid gold and sterling silver carry the modern fine end, and engraving, from machine patterns to hand-cut monograms and enamel work, supplies most of the exterior decoration.

Care is about the mechanism: keep water out of the interior, open the locket over a soft surface, and never force a stiff hinge, which a jeweler can adjust. A locket is bought as much for its action as its face: it should feel precise. Worn at 18 to 24 inches, it sits where the wearer's hand naturally reaches it, which is rather the point of the form.