Byzantine lockets from the 6th century and more recent antique Victorian lockets of the 1800s set the stage for this symbolic jewelry. Though antique and vintage lockets did not always contain photos, they were always very heartfelt jewelry. More modern styles started to include photos, and lockets have always demonstrated the time-honored symbolism of these pieces.
Victorian gate bracelets popularized the symbolism that’s often held by today’s heart-shaped lockets. In Victorian times, silver and
gold bracelets with heart-shaped locks were exchanged between romantic partners to symbolize their continued love during long spells of absence, such as when one partner traveled overseas for an extended period. These bracelets symbolized continued love and fidelity. This heart jewelry meaning has extended to today’s locket necklaces, bringing romantic symbolism to heart lockets.
Throughout history, lockets were often made of gold and adorned on the front with ornate carvings or
birthstones. Over the centuries, lockets have been continuously updated to include modern designs and the latest trends. Iconic heart locket necklaces have been popular for decades, and today’s newest designs play on this classic shape with added embellishments and custom touches. Today, lockets can be found in all kinds of shapes, metals and personalized designs.