This collection brings together a selection of antique lockets and reliquaries , jewelry, and period pieces designed to safeguard personal memories. Throughout history, these small containers have been discreet witnesses to emotional bonds, memories, and symbolism, maintaining their appeal to this day.
Lockets , also known as reliquaries, have ancient origins, but gained particular prominence during the 19th century, especially in the Victorian era. Designed to hold photographs, locks of hair, or small messages, they became deeply personal objects, associated with love, loss, and remembrance.
During this period, lockets were crafted in a wide variety of shapes and materials, from simple designs to richly decorated pieces adorned with enamels, pearls, stones, and symbolic motifs such as hearts, flowers, or natural elements. In many cases, they also served a protective or commemorative function, linked to sentimental and mourning jewelry.
Beyond their sentimental value, lockets and reliquaries are prized for their historical and aesthetic significance. Today, they are considered collector's items , valued for both their design and the cultural significance they represent. This selection includes antique and vintage examples chosen for their authenticity, state of preservation, and interest as period pieces, suitable for both contemporary use and collecting.
