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A locket necklace is one of the most personal pieces of jewellery a person can own, serving as a delicate miniature time capsule to preserve precious memories. With its roots dating back to the Victorian era, when romantic amulets hung prettily from chains or velvet ribbons, holding everything from tiny handmade portraits to tiny locks of hair in memory of a loved one, each pendant box is designed to beautifully encase personal treasures, and is often decorated with gold, metal, gemstones and intricate engravings.
Askume’s favorite locket necklace:
The Love Locket: Stone & Strand 14k Gold Diamond Sweetheart Pendant, $395
Vintage Heirloom: Ben-Amun Oval Locket Necklace, $105
Engravable Hearts: Catbird Dollhouse Engravable Gold Heart Charm Box, $198
Hidden Charm: Locket London Mini Gold Heart Pendant 14k, $1,200
Precious Memories: Monica Rich Kossan Beaded Center Diamond Locket, $650
Everyday Amulet: David Yurman Engraved Cable Pendant Amulet, $425
Today, the ritual continues, with pendant necklaces becoming souvenirs of photographs, amulets, love letters, and secrets known only to the wearer, cementing their legacy as a timeless heirloom. One of the most famous lockets is the locket rescued from the Titanic. It is not actually the heart-shaped blue diamond necklace known as the “Heart of the Sea” in the famous fictional love story, but rather a one-dimensional locket belonging to Virginia Estelle McDowell Clark. Decades later, her 18-karat gold locket was recovered from the ocean, proving that the piece had stood the ultimate test of time and the elements.
Each charm box tells a unique story, inviting the wearer to personalize their piece with a memory that resonates deeply. Whether you prefer a modern heart-shaped design close to the heart, a vintage-inspired piece that reflects its Victorian origins, or a cleverly hidden room, you’ll find the perfect locket here to turn it into your own personal treasure chest.
part of my heart
The heart-shaped charm box is designed to fit nicely on your chest, showcasing all the best memories of your loved ones. You can engrave a personalized pattern on the case, like this necklace from Stone and Strand, or choose to display a lovely charm through a glass case, like this one from Locket London.
Retro Style
Wear a locket designed to pay homage to the Victorian era or feel like a family heirloom passed down from generation to generation.
Invisible Locket
For a modern interpretation of a charm box, consider a necklace whose lock may not be obvious from the outside, but inside contains a secret chamber known only to the wearer. For example, this Monbouquet pendant comes with a small, personalized love letter, making it the perfect gift for your loved one.
