The History of Lockets: Origins & Symbolism
From ornate pieces of the Victorian era to photo lockets of contemporary times, lockets have a long and storied past. With their chains and clasps carrying evidence of human emotions, they remain a timeless keepsake. We explore the history of lockets and how their symbolism has changed over the years below.
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What Is a Locket?
A locket is a small, hinged jewelry piece, typically worn as a necklace. It holds a keepsake such as a photograph, a lock of hair, or a small note. The history of lockets shows how they have evolved over time, yet they continue to embody a romantic essence today. They also make meaningful gifts for occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings. It is common to engrave a name, date, or special message on these jewelry pieces to add a personal touch.
When Were Lockets Invented?
The history of lockets goes back to the beginning of the 16th century, when they were a discreet way to keep items of personal significance close. They would conceal holy relics, such as bone fragments or hair from a martyred saint, as people believed they ward off evil spirits, heal the sick, and perform miracles. Lockets were also used to carry a small fabric soaked in perfume to mask the stench common in densely populated areas of that time. Some people held healing herbs or, on occasion, poison in their lockets. Typically made of precious metals and adorned with gemstones, lockets were exclusive to the upper class.
When the art of portraiture became more widely established during the Renaissance, portrait lockets gained popularity. Often made of gold, enameled, and set with precious jewels, they served as prestigious court or diplomatic gifts.
By the 17th century, mourning jewelry had become common, due to the commemorative nature of lockets. This trend grew significantly after the execution of Charles I in 1649, when his followers wore miniature portraits of him in their locket necklaces, rings, and brooches.
In the 18th century, lockets became more accessible as the Industrial Revolution made mass production possible. No longer reserved for the wealthy, they grew in popularity across different social classes. This period was a turning point in the history of lockets, as they expanded beyond religious and mourning purposes to symbolize love, memory, and personal connections.
What Does a Locket Symbolize?
Lockets have long been associated with remembrance and sentimental value. The history of lockets shows how, in the 18th century, people enclosed locks of hair in their lockets, but these were hidden from view. However, this changed when craftsmen began constructing lockets out of panels of rock crystal, making them transparent.
Lockets reached the peak of their popularity in the 19th century, partly due to Queen Victoria. Prince Albert famously gave her a bracelet with eight lockets attached to it, each containing a lock of hair from one of their eight children. After he passed away, the queen wore a mourning locket containing a photograph of him and a lock of his hair. This inspired many to exchange lockets as tokens of affection.
Lockets became an important sentimental object during the war years, when soldiers gave their loved ones a locket with their picture, as a reminder to wait for them. They also received such trinkets as motivation to stay strong when they marched off to battle.
No matter how lockets have changed over time, their meaning stays the same. Whether they hold a symbol of love or a treasured memory, the history of lockets proves that they will always carry stories that matter.
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Mighty Dainty's Photo Lockets: A Modern Take On a Classic Piece
Mighty Dainty’s photo lockets are where old-school charm meets modern style. Classic, contemporary, or somewhere in between – no matter your style, we have a locket for you. Each one holds the memories that matter most. Want to make it even more personal? Add an engraving, like a name, a significant date, or a little message that means something special.
