The History and Meaning of Lockets: From Royalty to Modern Memorials

Introduction

Lockets are more than just jewellery — they are timeless symbols of love, remembrance, and personal significance. Worn close to the heart, they can hold photographs, charms, or even a lock of hair from someone special.

Whether as a thoughtful gift, a memorial keepsake, or a personal treasure, lockets have been cherished across centuries and cultures. In this article, we explore the fascinating history of lockets, their royal influence, and their enduring appeal today.

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What is a Locket?

A locket is a small piece of jewellery, usually worn on a chain around the neck, which opens to hold a personal memento such as a photograph, charm, or lock of hair.

The word “locket” comes from Middle English locquet and Old French, meaning a small lock. Originally, lockets were designed to protect and conceal something precious inside.

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The History of Lockets

Ancient Origins

Lockets date back to ancient times, initially serving as amulets and charm holders. Some contained perfume-soaked cloths believed to ward off disease, while others even held medicinal substances.

During the Middle Ages, “poison rings” were a macabre cousin to the locket, containing capsules that could hold poisons or elixirs. These intriguing origins made lockets objects of both practicality and fascination.

Royal Influence

Royalty has played a major role in shaping locket fashion:

• Elizabeth I wore a mother-of-pearl and gold locket ring set with rubies and diamonds, containing portraits of her mother Anne Boleyn and herself.

• Mary Queen of Scots carried the famous Penicuik locket with a miniature portrait and fourteen gold beads containing perfume.

• Prince Edward created the “Lover’s Eye” locket for his secret marriage, featuring only his eye as a discreet token.

• Queen Victoria received a bracelet from Prince Albert holding eight lockets with locks of their children’s hair. Following Prince Albert’s death, she commissioned lockets containing his photograph, popularizing mourning jewellery.

Many antique mourning lockets can still be found today in collections and antique shops, crafted from black bog oak, enamel, or gold.

Modern Lockets

The 20th century saw lockets become more accessible:

• Soldiers in WWI and WWII gifted lockets as symbols of love, often containing photographs

• Mass production allowed wider access, while designers experimented with two-tone lockets, silver, and Welsh gold.

• Glass-fronted lockets now display charms, initials, birthstones, or even dried flowers.

• Memorial lockets allow ashes of loved ones or pets to be incorporated, offering a deeply personal keepsake.

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Why Lockets Are Timeless

Lockets remain popular because they are:

• Versatile: suitable for gifts, personal keepsakes, or memorials

• Meaningful: represent love, remembrance, and family ties

• Personalizable: can include photos, charms, or inscriptions

How to Choose a Locket Today

When selecting a locket, consider:

• Material: Silver, gold, or two-tone styles

• Style: Classic, modern, memorial, engraved, or charm-based

• Size & Shape: Pendant, ring, bracelet

• Personalization: Photos, initials, charms, or memorial ashes