Pendant vs. Locket: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on December 30, 2023
A pendant is a piece of jewelry that hangs from a chain worn around the neck, while a locket is a specific type of pendant that opens to reveal a space for keepsakes, often photos.
Key Differences
A pendant is any ornamental piece that hangs from a necklace or chain. Lockets are a type of pendant that have a special feature: they can open to hold small items, typically photographs or mementos.
Pendants come in various designs, shapes, and sizes, and can be made from different materials like gold, silver, or gemstones. Lockets are usually round or oval and are designed to open on a hinge, revealing a space inside.
The primary purpose of a pendant is decorative, adding style and elegance to jewelry. Lockets serve a more sentimental purpose, often used to keep pictures or small keepsakes close to the heart.
Pendants can symbolize various things based on their design, such as religious faith or personal interests. Lockets are often associated with love, memory, and nostalgia, holding personal significance.
Pendants have been used throughout history in various cultures for adornment or as amulets. Lockets gained popularity in the Victorian era and were commonly used as mementos for loved ones.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A decorative piece hanging from a chain
A pendant that opens to store keepsakes
Variety
Wide range of designs and materials
Specific design with a hinge
Function
Mainly decorative
Sentimental, holding photos or items
Symbolism
Varies widely
Symbolizes love, memory, nostalgia
Historical Usage
Used for adornment or as amulets
Popular in Victorian era for mementos
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Pendant and Locket Definitions
Pendant
Ornament that hangs from jewelry.
His necklace had a crystal pendant.
Locket
Often used for sentimental reasons.
He gave her a locket with their picture inside.
Pendant
Decorative jewelry piece on a necklace.
She wore a gold pendant on her silver chain.
Locket
Symbolizes love, memory, and nostalgia.
The locket was a keepsake of her grandmother.
Pendant
Varies in design, shape, and material.
The pendant was shaped like a leaf.
Locket
A pendant that opens to hold small items.
Her locket contained a photo of her family.
Pendant
Adds style and elegance to necklaces.
A diamond pendant adorned her necklace.
Locket
Typically round or oval in shape.
She wore an antique oval locket.
Pendant
Can symbolize personal beliefs or interests.
Her pendant had a symbol of peace.
Locket
Historically popular as mementos.
The Victorian locket held a lock of hair.
Pendant
Something suspended from something else, especially an ornament or piece of jewelry attached to a necklace or bracelet.
Locket
A small ornamental case for a picture or keepsake that is worn as jewelry, often as a pendant on a necklace.
Pendant
A hanging lamp or chandelier.
FAQs
Can pendants be made of any material?
Yes, pendants can be made from various materials like gold, silver, and gemstones.
What defines a locket?
A locket is a type of pendant that opens to hold small keepsakes.
What can be kept inside a locket?
Lockets typically hold photographs or small sentimental items.
Can pendants be of any shape?
Yes, pendants come in various shapes and designs.
What is a pendant?
A pendant is an ornamental piece that hangs from a necklace.
When did lockets become popular?
Lockets gained popularity during the Victorian era.
Are all lockets made of precious metals?
Lockets can be made from various materials, including precious metals and alloys.
Can lockets be passed down as heirlooms?
Yes, lockets are often kept as family heirlooms due to their sentimental value.
What is the historical significance of pendants?
Pendants have been used for adornment or as amulets throughout history.
Are pendants always worn on necklaces?
While commonly worn on necklaces, pendants can also adorn bracelets or earrings.
Do lockets have a special meaning?
Lockets often symbolize love, memory, and nostalgia.
Is it common to gift pendants?
Yes, pendants are a popular and versatile gift choice.
Can lockets be customized?
Yes, lockets can be engraved or customized to add personal significance.
Are lockets always round or oval?
While traditionally round or oval, modern lockets can have different shapes.
Can men wear pendants?
Yes, pendants are unisex and can be worn by anyone.
Do pendants have religious connotations?
Some pendants can have religious symbols and meanings.
Are pendants purely decorative?
Primarily decorative, but some also serve as amulets or symbols.
Do lockets come in different sizes?
Yes, lockets vary in size, from small to relatively large.
Is it common to engrave lockets?
Engraving lockets with names, dates, or messages is a common practice.
Can pendants be part of a set?
Pendants are often part of jewelry sets, including earrings or bracelets.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
