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Picture lockets, also known as photo lockets, have been a popular form of keepsake jewelry for centuries. These small, hinged lockets typically feature space for one or two photographs or other small items, making them ideal for commemorating special memories or loved ones. In popular culture, picture lockets have played a significant role in a variety of different contexts.
The History of Picture Lockets
Picture lockets have been around since at least the 16th century, although they did not become widely popular until the Victorian era. During this time, many people began wearing lockets as a way to remember loved ones who had passed away. These lockets often contained a lock of hair or other memento from the deceased, and they were considered to be a form of mourning jewelry.
As time went on, the popularity of picture lockets grew, and they began to be used for a wider variety of purposes. By the early 20th century, picture lockets had become a common gift for special occasions like weddings, graduations, and milestone birthdays. They also became popular as a way to commemorate romantic relationships, with couples exchanging lockets that contained pictures of each other.
Picture Lockets in Literature and Film
Picture lockets have been a popular symbol in literature and film for many years. In many stories, the protagonist wears a locket that contains a picture of their love interest or a special memory. For example, in Jane Austen’s novel “Sense and Sensibility,” the character Edward Ferrars gives a picture locket containing a lock of his hair to his love interest, Elinor Dashwood. In the Harry Potter series, the character Hermione Granger wears a locket that contains a picture of her parents.
In film, picture lockets have also played a significant role. In the movie “Titanic,” the character Rose wears a picture locket that contains a portrait of her fiancé, Cal. Later in the film, she opens the locket and removes the picture, symbolizing her decision to leave Cal and be with Jack. Picture lockets have also appeared in other films like “The Notebook” and “Pride and Prejudice.”
Picture Lockets in Modern Times
Today, picture lockets are still a popular form of keepsake jewelry. While they are no longer commonly used for mourning purposes, they are still given as gifts for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries. Many people also wear picture lockets to commemorate their children, pets, or other loved ones.
One trend that has emerged in recent years is the use of picture lockets as a form of personalized jewelry. Many companies now offer custom necklace with picture inside lockets that can be engraved with a name, date, or other special message. Some lockets even feature birthstones or other embellishments. These customized lockets are a popular gift for mothers, grandmothers, and other family members.
In conclusion, picture lockets have played an important role in popular culture for many years. From their early use as mourning jewelry to their appearance in literature and film, these small, hinged lockets have become a beloved symbol of love, memory, and connection. Today, picture lockets continue to be a popular form of keepsake jewelry and a meaningful way to commemorate special memories and loved ones.