All About Lockets : History

Dictionary meaning: lock·et (lŏk'ĭt)

n. A small ornamental case for a picture or keepsake, usually worn as a pendant.

The history of the locket is almost as much of a mystery as the contents of a locket itself...a locket is said to hold the deepest secrets of your heart and is entirely personal and sentimental to the wearer.

Traditionally, the locket would contain a lock of hair, a picture, a love note or even ashes and was inscribed with the owners' initials or words of undying affection for her lover.

It is impossible to state the exact place or date of origin of the locket, and there is very little documented evidence regarding the history of lockets. One of the earliest locket owners was during the Commonwealth (1649-60) when the royalist lady wore a locket hidden under her clothing of the late Charles I .. Centuries later the vinaigrette locket - better known as the perfume locket - became extremely popular as a point of modesty for genteel women.

Every locket has a story to tell or a secret held tightly within the little hinged door. A locket may contain symbols of history, love, happiness and reminiscences...memories of the past and hopes for the future. It is always fascinating to know the significance to the wearer, why it was given, and what is inside...they entice our natural curiosity. Perhaps it is these romantic notions, which draw us to lockets as a cherished gift, or just the pure magnetism of the locket itself as a beautiful and personal memento of love and devotion, constantly close to the heart.

Lockets are now available in nearly every shape and size imaginable, from the most popular - the heart shaped locket - for its representation of romance, to the more traditional oval locket. There are also other shapes and styles to choose from such as round, rectangular, designer and unique depending on the occasion. They come in a range of precious metals such as 9ct gold, 18ct gold, white gold, rose gold, diamond or glass. The vast variety of lockets available makes it the perfect gift for almost anyone and matches with almost any attire because it so timelessly fashionable.

If you are looking for the perfect birthday, anniversary, valentines day, christening, new baby, Christmas, memorial gift or for just about any occasion you can't find a better expression of your love than giving a locket.