Keyed Up

Oct 19

Your personal style on lock

Rife with romantic symbolism, lock-and-key motifs have stood for eternal love for what seems like, well, an eternity. Popular in the Victorian era—famous for creatively cryptic courtship—jewelry in the form of locks and keys served as an encoded means to convey amorous intent. Some trace the symbolism back far earlier to ancient China, where lovers would clasp a lock around a gate then throw the key away, symbolically locking themselves together forever, a custom that endures today on bridges in cities like Rome and Paris. (Travel tip: the city of Paris lovingly requests that couples take a selfie instead to help preserve their bridges.)

And if you’re not into symbolism that equates love to a permanent shackle? Reinterpret these pieces as a representation of freedom and empowerment instead. You hold the key.

**Diamond Padlock**

Known for her ability to create pieces that balance edgy with refined, Zoë Chicco’s designs are coveted collectables, like this delicate padlock bracelet that manages to feel both modern and antique.
Zoë Chicco 14k gold star set diamond padlock bracelet, $525 at Zoë Chicco

**Amulet Padlock**

With a heritage like Hermès’, the brand needs little introduction. Those familiar with the design house’s famous (and famously expensive) “Kelly” bag might recognize the lock-and-key motif reprised in this necklace, inspired by the company’s equestrian roots.
Hermès amulet padlock pendant, $620 at Hermès

**Carpe Diem**

If you’re searching for something less expected than the traditional skeleton-key style, try this petite pendant from designer Monica Rich Kosann, whose mission is to make jewelry that empowers its wearer. Inspired by the keys used at the turn of the century to wind pocket watches, in the designer’s words, “these are timeless, iconic elements that—like all keys—can reveal our stories.”
Monica Rich Kosann “Carpe Diem” key necklace in 18k yellow gold with rock crystal and sapphire, $1,325 at Walters & Hogsett Jewelers
*This item is sold out.

**Lock & Key Treasure Box**

More than just symbolic, the only way to open this ingenious locket is with a key. A small version comes included, or spring for Sorrellina’s 18 karat yellow gold and diamond key (shown) that doubles as a second pendant.
Sorellina 18k yellow gold, pink sapphire, and turquoise locket, $6,800 and 18k yellow gold and diamond key, $3,200 at Sorellina

**Pavé Diamond Lock**

Founded in LA by Rosanne Karmes (and named after her two children), the Sydney Evan collection combines fine jewelry with spirituality and symbolism. Fans and collectors love the seemingly endless selection of charms she creates, like this pretty pavé lock.
Sydney Evan 14k yellow gold and diamond lock necklace, $930 at Oster Jewelers

**Hex Padlock Locket**

London-based Missoma is a pioneer of the “demi-fine” jewelry category, using semi-precious gemstones and plating techniques to create pieces that toe the line between fine and fashion. Doubling up on the lock-and-key trend, this pendant is a locket in padlock form and accented in onyx, a stone believed to have protective properties.
Missoma hex padlock locket clip-on pendant, $115 at Missoma

Editor: Samantha Durbin
Wordsmith & Market Editor: Rebecca Daly

Every item featured is personally selected by our writers and editors (read: we're totally into it). Please know that when you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission (read: we get to keep doing what we love).