The week so far:

Vintage dresses worn - 3

Nutty Beetroot salads made - 4

Inches cut off hair - 2

Cafes visited - 2

Times cried - 1

Times giggled – many

Photographs taken of vintage clothes for the shop – 131

Cups of tea 5,000 (joking)

Favourite items in the vintage shop now – LOCKETS

Here at Magpies and Diamonds HQ we adore antique and vintage lockets - “we” being myself and a little spaniel who is my constant companion while I work. Finding a locket made of precious metals, perhaps with the engraved initials of previous owners, or having an old photograph, or occasionally, a lock of hair inside is quite beautiful to me. Vintage lockets have an appeal that goes beyond fashion as they are at their core a memory keeper and a connection to loved ones.

Lockets have a wonderfully rich history; they were popular during the Victorian times to the early 20th century. Often made from gold and adorned with intricate engravings, they embody the taste for ornate and sentimental jewellery at the time. The Victorian lockets frequently contained tiny portraits as intimate mementos of loved ones. As trends changed a little moving into the the Edwardian and Art Nouveau periods, they maintained this sentimentality but the designs evolved to feature delicate filigree work and the use of decorative enamel and semi-precious stones. By the time of the fashions of the Art Deco period in the early 20th century, lockets started to feature bolder geometric patterns and sleek lines, with materials like platinum and white gold becoming popular. Can you imagine owning a locket that has been passed down through your family through generations? Each wearer adding their own story to its legacy, I think that would be the most wonderful thing to have!

Did you know some lockets were thought to be magical too? They were believed to bring luck, protection, and even love to their wearers. The practice of placing a lock of a deceased loved-one’s hair in the locket was not just for comfort and remembrance, it was also believed to keep the spirit of the loved one close to you. There are tales of sailors' wives who wore lockets containing a photo or token from their husbands, believing that these talismans would keep their husbands safe during perilous sea voyages. Lockets have also been used to guard against evil spirits with their tiny compartments filled with protective herbs or sacred relics. Even today, there remains the belief that gifting a locket to someone special can strengthen bonds.

So, if you are looking to buy a antique or vintage locket, what should you be looking for? Authenticity and quality are important to finding a piece that will be both beautiful and valuable for many more years to come. Firstly take a look at the locket's quality as genuine antique lockets often feature intricate detailing and have quite a sturdy construction. Check for hallmarks or maker’s marks (though not all have these). There are usually small stamps on the interior or back which can authenticate the locket’s origin and metal content. Take a look at the condition of the hinge and clasp too as these can be problem areas; they should work smoothly and hold the locket shut securely. Check for signs of repair too, such as solder marks, which might affect the locket’s integrity. The materials used - whether gold, silver, or enamel - should also show minimal tarnish. Additionally consider the locket's provenance, as pieces with documented history or original photos and mementos inside are often more valuable. However, despite all of this being said, the most important factor is of course to go with your instincts and choose a locket that resonates with you personally. The true value of the locket is in the emotional connection it creates and enjoyment in owning the piece. 

To take care of your locket clean it with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or oils from handling, but avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as these can damage the delicate surface and decorative details. Also, a good tip is to store your locket in a cool, dry place such as a soft fabric-lined box or pouch to prevent scratches and tarnish as direct sunlight and humidity can cause discoloration over time.

So, now we know what to look out for when choosing a locket, there are many ways you can personalise these. Antique and Vintage lockets are super versatile and can be updated to fit modern tastes. Here are some other ideas for wearers below to place in the locket chamber. 

- Custom Charms: These could include initials, birthstones, or tiny symbols representing hobbies and travels, which tell your story.

- Miniature Artworks: Tiny, hand-painted artworks or illustrations. This can be a creative way to personalize the locket with bespoke designs that reflect your personality or artistic tastes.

- Helpful or meaningful quotes: Place a favourite quote, mantra, or meaningful phrase inside the locket. This can be a source of daily inspiration and motivation.

- Mementos from Special Occasions: Incorporate small items from significant events in the locket chamber, for example a pressed flower or a snippet of fabric from a memorable outfit such as a wedding dress.

- Memory Keepers: Create a mini memory capsule by including tiny handwritten notes or messages. These can be messages to your future self, thoughts of encouragement, or reflections.

- Health and Wellness: Lockets can be used to hold small vials of essential oils or tiny crystals believed to have healing properties.

Whether you are drawn to their beauty, their historical significance, or the personal stories they hold, there is a vintage locket out there that will resonate with your unique journey.