In the early days of photography, the only way to keep a photograph was to have it mounted in a frame or to carry it around in a small case. This all changed in the 1850s with the introduction of the photo locket. The locket allowed people to carry their photos with them wherever they went. Keep reading to learn more about the history of the photo locket.
The Origins of the Locket Necklace
The locket has been a popular piece of jewelry for centuries, with many believing that its popularity originated from the ancient Greeks and Romans. These ancient cultures were heavily superstitious, and amulets were worn as a way to ward off bad luck and protect the wearer from harm. These amulets eventually developed into lockets, which were worn as a way to keep precious memories close to the heart.
Early lockets of the 1400s were made out of small containers that were used to hold a lock of hair, a picture, or another small sentimental item. They were typically shaped like an urn, oval, or even a casket. These lockets were often used to mourn a lost loved one, as a way to keep them close to the heart.
Small portraits of the king and queen were also sometimes placed in locket necklaces to show loyalty to the crown. Some lockets even had small compartments that could be used to store scents. This was a new development in the locket necklace, and it allowed the wearers to enjoy the perfume of their loved ones or favorite flowers at any time.
Lockets Continuing to Evolve
The locket was primarily a type of mourning jewelry for centuries as a way for people to commemorate and remember loved ones who had passed away. By the 1700s, locket necklaces were often intricately designed and contained photos of the deceased inside. As the 1700s came to a close, photo lockets had transitioned to not only mourning jewelry but also as a testament to living friendships, romantic relationships, or family. They were also worn more as a fashion statement and were popular among those in the upper classes.
However, the locket necklace’s popularity didn’t just stop in the 1700s. In the 1800s, jewelers began producing more affordable lockets that became popular among the middle and lower classes. This helped to further increase the locket’s popularity and ensured that it remained a staple in fashion for many years to come.
The Lockets of Today
Today, lockets are often given as gifts for special occasions, such as weddings, anniversaries, and births. They’re also popular among mothers and grandmothers, who often give them to their children and grandchildren as keepsakes. Today’s lockets can still hold multiple photographs, so they’re a fantastic way to keep memories close at hand.
Many people choose to have their portraits taken specifically for use in a locket. This ensures that the photos inside will have special meaning and personal significance. However, any photograph can be used in a locket, so long as it holds sentimental value for the owner.
Lockets are a timeless way to keep your memories close to your heart. Whether you’re looking for a gift for a loved one or a special way to commemorate a special occasion, a locket necklace is a perfect choice.
How to Choose Your Own Photo Locket
When it comes to choosing a locket, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The first is the style of the locket. Do you want a traditional photo locket with a hinge or a newer style that snaps shut? Next, consider the size. Locket necklaces come in all shapes and sizes, so you’ll want to find one that is the right size for you. Finally, think about the type of material you want it to be made out of. Sterling silver is a popular choice, but there are also lockets made from gold, platinum, and other metals.
Once you’ve decided on the style, size, and material of the locket necklace, you need to decide on the type of picture you want to put inside. The most popular option is still to use a photo of a loved one, but you can also choose a photo of a pet or any other sentimental photo. If you’re not sure which picture to use, you can always go with a unique quote or a picture of a special place.
Once you’ve decided on all of these things, it’s time to find the perfect locket. Be sure to shop around and compare prices before you make a purchase. When you finally find the perfect locket, it will be a cherished piece that you will wear with pride.
Photo Locket
Now that you’re more familiar with this beautiful piece of history, you can better appreciate having one of your own. Remember to use our tips to find the perfect locket, and you’ll soon have a beautiful locket to hold your most sentimental photos close to your heart.
