ith the possibility of storing small keepsakes, lockets have been part of Europe’s memorabilia culture for over 200 years. Worn close to the heart, they’re often regarded as a pledge of affection between two people. They remain popular gifts to this day.
Originally, lockets were made to enshrine a letter or a lock of hair. This resulted in a more voluminous shape with an interior compartment that can be opened.
Originally, lockets were made to hold a letter or a curl of hair. This resulted in a rather voluminous shape, with a compartment inside to open. Their front is often adorned with pearls and diamonds, or engraved with the finest handwork. At the same time, pieces also emerged that could not be opened and were used as picture medallions for the presentation of miniature paintings. These pendants are often enamelled in black or cut from onyx.
Their shape changed with the proliferation of photography. Since it was feasible for nearly everybody to own a photograph by about 1900, the flat, hinged photo lockets became prevalent. These pieces were created in many shapes and designs, from the simple silver pendant to the precious individual piece in the style of Art Nouveau.
