What Is a Locket? A Complete Guide

A locket is one of those timeless pieces of jewelry that blends sentiment with design. At its core, a locket is a small pendant or compartment that opens to reveal a tiny, personal keepsake. While the term is often associated with portraits, many lockets hold hair, fabric, notes, or other mementos. If you have ever wondered what is a locket, this guide covers its history, styles, practical use, and how to choose one that fits your story.

Defining a locket

So, what is a locket? In simple terms, a locket is a jewelry piece with a hinged or removable cover that opens to store small photos or tokens. The external shell is usually solid metal or enamel, while the interior contains a compartment designed to cradle the keepsake. The essence of a locket lies in its dual purpose: it is both adornment and a vessel for memories. The word “locket” comes from the French word loquet, meaning a small lock, which hints at the idea of a safeguarded keepsake.

A brief history

Lockets have a long and diverse history that spans continents and centuries. Early versions appeared in the 16th and 17th centuries, when miniature portraits became popular in Europe. By the Victorian era, lockets became especially iconic, evolving into a moral and romantic symbol. People used lockets to carry loved ones’ pictures after far-flung wars or migrations, as well as locks of hair, tiny notes, or dried flowers. The idea of a personal, portable reminder resonated deeply in cultures that valued memory and connection. Today, modern lockets honor that heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics and materials.

Designs and features

Lockets come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and mechanisms. Here are some common designs and what to expect from each:

Heart-shaped lockets — The classic and most recognizable form. A heart locket tends to be romantic and timeless, often set with a polished surface or delicate engraving.
Oval or rectangular lockets — A sleeker, more modern silhouette that pairs well with everyday outfits and professional attire.
Round lockets — A playful option that can hold tiny photos or hair strands with a soft, traditional charm.
Glass-front or crystal locket — Some designs feature a clear window to display a photo without opening the piece, while others open to reveal a larger interior.
Engraved or enamel accents — Personalization options that add initials, dates, or decorative motifs to the exterior.

Most lockets have one of two opening mechanisms: a hinged lid that swings open or a snap/slide closure. Inside, you’ll typically find a photo insert or a small compartment for mementos such as hair or fabric. Some lockets are designed to hold two photos, one on each side, or to accommodate a tiny scroll with a message. The materials vary widely, from traditional gold and silver to stainless steel, brass, or plated finishes. Modern lockets may blend metals with enamel, pavé stones, or resin inlays for a contemporary look.

Contents and what they symbolize

The contents of a locket are what make it meaningful. In many cases, a locket carries one or more of the following keepsakes:

Photographs — Tiny portraits or portraits cut down to fit the compartment. A photo can capture a parent, child, partner, or a cherished friend.
Locks of hair — A traditional option, especially in heirloom lockets from the 19th century.
Notes or letters — A short message or date that adds a personal touch.
Fabric or small textiles — A piece of cloth from a favorite garment or a fabric fragment from a loved one’s clothing.
Leaves, seeds, or tiny memorabilia — For environmental or nature-inspired keepsakes.

The choice of contents often reflects the wearer’s relationship with the memory inside the locket. For some, a picture is enough; for others, a more intimate combination of items makes the piece feel alive and present day after day.

Materials and tailoring

Lockets come in a spectrum of materials. Traditionalists might prefer precious metals like gold or sterling silver for their luster, resilience, and timeless appeal. Others opt for stainless steel or brass for a budget-friendly option that still looks refined. Materials influence not only appearance but also wearability and care needs.

Gold lockets — Rich and durable, often available in yellow, white, or rose tones. They pair well with a variety of chains and outfits.
Silver lockets — Classic and versatile, with a cooler tone that suits many styles. Silver can tarnish, so regular polishing is helpful.
Gold-plated or vermeil lockets — A more affordable option that mimics the look of gold while reducing cost. Care is important to maintain plating.
Stainless steel lockets — Modern, durable, and often hypoallergenic, good for sensitive skin.
Enamel or gemstone accents — Adds color and texture, giving a contemporary or vintage flair depending on execution.

Regardless of material, the interior design—how the keepsake is secured and displayed—shapes the overall experience of wearing a locket. Some lockets include a small photo insert or a velvet-lined cradle to keep contents intact while avoiding scratches.

Choosing the right locket

When selecting a locket, consider both aesthetics and function. Here are practical tips to guide your choice:

Purpose — Do you want a sentimental piece, a fashion accessory, or a keepsake with a specific memory? Your purpose influences size, style, and closure type.
Size and scale — Larger lockets accommodate larger photos or more items but may feel heavy around the neck. Smaller lockets are subtle statements that work for everyday wear.
Chain compatibility — Check the length and thickness of the chain. A delicate locket pairs with fine chains; a chunky chain can balance a heavier piece.
Personalization — Consider engraving initials, a date, or a short message. Personalization adds meaning and makes a locket feel unique.
Maintenance — Metals like silver need more care; gold and stainless steel tend to be lower-maintenance. Consider your lifestyle when choosing finishes.

How to wear and style

A locket can be a subtle accent or the focal point of an outfit, depending on how you wear it. Here are styling ideas to help you integrate a locket into various looks:

Everyday elegance — A mid-length chain with a medium-sized locket adds a touch of grace to casual outfits like knitwear or button-down shirts.
Layered jewelry — Layer a locket with other delicate necklaces of different lengths to create depth and movement.
Formal occasions — A refined locket in gold or silver can complement a blazer, an evening dress, or a suit, especially when the locket’s interior holds a meaningful photo.
Gift-giving — Lockets make thoughtful presents for anniversaries, graduations, or family milestones. Pair a locket with a personal note about the memory it contains.

Care and maintenance

To keep a locket looking its best, follow a few simple care steps. Proper maintenance helps preserve both the exterior and the interior keepsake:

Cleaning — Wipe the exterior with a soft jewelry cloth. For metal lockets, a mild soap solution can be used lightly; dry thoroughly to prevent moisture from seeping inside.
Contents — When removing or inserting photos or hair, handle items with clean hands to avoid oils or fingerprints.
Storage — Store lockets in a soft pouch or a jewelry box away from humidity and direct light to prevent tarnish and fading of photos or textiles.
Avoid moisture and chemicals — Water, perfumes, and cleaning products can dull finishes or damage delicate contents. Remove the locket when swimming or showering.
Regular checks — Periodically inspect hinges and clasps to ensure smooth operation and prevent accidental opening.

Cultural significance and modern twists

Lockets have long been a symbol of remembrance, affection, and continuity. The idea of carrying a memory close to the heart continues to resonate in contemporary jewelry. Modern designers experiment with unconventional materials, internal configurations, and even digital elements—such as tiny QR codes or micro-etched messages that unfold as you turn the pendant, or lockets designed to hold mini keepsakes created with 3D printing. Despite these evolutions, the core concept remains the same: a personal container that invites storytelling through a small, tangible artifact.

Frequently asked questions

What is a locket used for?: A locket is used to store small sentimental items, most commonly photographs, hair, or notes, so that the memory can be carried close to the heart.
Are lockets valuable?: Value varies with material, craftsmanship, and historical significance. Antique lockets, especially those with genuine precious metals and hand engraving, can be collectible. Modern mass-produced lockets are typically valued for their emotional meaning and design.
How do you open a locket safely?: Most lockets feature a hinge or a small latch. Gently lift or slide the lid with clean fingers. If the mechanism feels stiff, a tiny amount of jewelry-safe lubricant or asking a professional jeweler for maintenance can help.
Can a locket hold more than one photo?: Yes. Many lockets are designed to hold two photos, one on each side, or a single larger photo with a slide-in insert.

Conclusion

Understanding what is a locket reveals more than a piece of jewelry; it reveals a philosophy of memory. A locket can be a quiet companion in daily life, a meaningful gift, or a treasured heirloom passed down through generations. Whether you prefer a classic metal heart, a sleek modern oval, or a richly engraved design, the best locket is the one that holds a memory you want to reuse, revisit, or share. With thoughtful selection, proper care, and a touch of personal meaning, a locket remains not just an accessory but a living keepsake that travels with you through time.