Vintage pendants and lockets by Cartier (France)

A locket is an item of jewellery, usually a pendant worn on a chain around the neck, that is hinged and opens to reveal a space, sometimes called a "keepsake compartment", used for storing a a personal memento, such as a miniature, a photograph or strands of hair.

Other styles of lockets are worn as a brooch or bracelet.

They have been around in various forms since the 15th century, but reached the peak of their popularity in the 19th century, when sentimentality was part of the national psyche.

They are most commonly made of gold or silver, often decorated more... with precious or semi-precious stones and come in many shapes including ovals, hearts and circles. less...

Cartier is a luxury goods manufacturer founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier in Paris, France. The company began as a jewelry workshop and soon gained a reputation for producing high-quality, innovative designs. In the late 1800s, Cartier began to expand its product line to include watches and other luxury goods.

In 1904, Cartier moved to a new location on the prestigious Rue de la Paix in Paris, which further solidified its reputation as a leading luxury goods manufacturer. The company continued to expand throughout the early 20th century, opening stores in London and New York City more... .

In the 1920s and 1930s, Cartier became known for its Art Deco designs and its use of precious materials such as gold and diamonds. The company also began to produce a wide variety of luxury goods, including pens, lighters, and cigarette cases. In 1917, the company was sold to the jeweller Alfred Cartier, Louis-Francois' son, who further developed the brand.

During the 1950s and 1960s, Cartier continued to be a major player in the luxury goods market, and it began to develop its own line of perfumes and accessories.

In 1972, the company was acquired by a consortium led by Joseph Kanoui, who helped to expand the company's presence in Asia and the Middle East.

Today, Cartier is a subsidiary of the Richemont group and it continues to produce a wide range of luxury goods, including watches, jewelry, and leather goods. It is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, distinctive design, and iconic brand. less...