Lockets are a type of jewelry that have been cherished for centuries. We love how they evoke emotions and each one tells a unique story! No two are alike because they are not only decorative but also serve a practical purpose, as they can hold a small keepsake or memento of a loved one. They often tell the stories of love, mourning, or remembrance for the people who wore them. Here is a brief history of locket jewelry and how it has evolved over time.
Ancient Times: Lockets have been around for thousands of years and were used by ancient civilizations to carry small items like herbs, religious relics, or even poison. The first lockets were often made of simple materials like wood or bone and were worn around the neck as a protective talisman.
The Renaissance: During the Renaissance, lockets became more ornate and decorative, with intricate designs and precious materials like gold, silver, and enamel. These lockets were often given as gifts and were a symbol of love and affection between two people.
The Victorian Era: The Victorian era saw a resurgence of interest in lockets, with the introduction of new techniques and materials that allowed for more complex designs. Lockets became popular among the middle class and were often given as sentimental gifts. Many Victorian lockets were designed to hold a lock of hair from a loved one, a practice that was considered romantic at the time. Lockets also were a way to smell fresh. Wearers would place a small piece of cloth dosed in perfume or essential oils inside and open them when they need a fresh scent.
The 20th Century: Photography changed everything and lockets became a place to hold a photo of your loved ones close to your heart. Lockets aren’t just for the ladies! Lockets remained popular throughout the 20th century, with many soldiers during World War II carrying lockets with pictures of loved ones as a reminder of home. In the 1960s and 70s, lockets became more fashion-forward, with bold designs and bright colors.
Today: Lockets remain a popular form of jewelry today, with modern designs that range from simple and understated to bold and elaborate. Many lockets now come with interchangeable charms or inserts, allowing the wearer to customize their locket with different pictures or keepsakes.
Lockets have a long and fascinating history, and they have remained a cherished form of jewelry for centuries. Whether worn as a sentimental keepsake or as a fashion statement, lockets continue to capture the imagination of jewelry lovers around the world. Whenever we find vintage lockets with mementos inside, we keep them that way, and let the new owner decide what to keep inside, a piece of the past, or a moment from the present.
We have recently acquired a huge estate of vintage lockets, with many 14k gold filled lockets from the 1900s-1950s. Shop this collection online.
For a larger selection, shop in the Austin boutique for a range of lockets from the 1900s-1980s, includes gold and silver plated, enamel, novelty, and more.
For a larger selection, shop in the Austin boutique for a range of lockets from the 1900s-1980s, includes gold and silver plated, enamel, novelty, and more.