Lockets: Jewelry With a Meaning

Originally, lockets offered a way to carry around a small painted portrait of a loved one. Then, in the 1840's, lockets became a popular way to carry a daguerreotype picture. Daguerreotype was one of the earliest photographing techniques, requiring the subject to sit for at least thirty minutes (seems like a lot, but this was a great deal shorter than painting a portrait). At this time, lockets were quite large and reserved for wealthy aristocrats.

History of Lockets

In 1860, lockets turned into a symbol of mourning. People would wear a locket to express their loss, holding either a picture of the deceased or a lock of their hair. It was a beautiful way to remember a loved one and keep them close to the heart. But when photography became widely available to the general public, lockets really took off as a fashion statement and emblem of romance. Their size became smaller and they were given as gifts to girlfriends, wives, and family members.

Lockets are still fashionable today, given a presents for almost any occasion or passed down as heirlooms. A heart locket is commonly given as a token of love and romance and some lockets are even monogrammed to really make it personal. They are usually suspended from chains and worn as pendants, but it isn't unusual to see a locket bracelet. Many people like to collect vintage or antique lockets and display them in their homes. No matter the motive, a locket is always beautiful and timeless choice.