Ever since time immemorial, accessories have been an integral part of our lives. Among many accessories we have used, neck accessories are among the most beautiful and staple accessories. Among the many accessories, lockets, pendants, and necklaces are among some of the most popular. But did you know that all three of these jewelry pieces are different? While necklaces, pendants, and necklaces are used interchangeably, they are different. But what are the differences?
Here we will look at the core differences between these three terms that are used interchangeably. So, without any further ado, let’s get started!
What is a Pendant?
In the simplest of terms, a pendant is a decorative piece of jewelry that hangs from a chain or a necklace. They can be anything from a gemstone, carved metal, bones, and even DIY jewelry. There is virtually no limit to what a pendant can be.
Historically, pendants were shells, carved bones, carved woods, or expensive jewelry. Records of gold and gemstones have been used as pendants as early as 600 BC in Greece. Therefore, it would be safe to say that there is a rich history attached to this form of jewelry.
What is a Locket?
Now that we know what a pendant is, let’s talk about lockets now. In its simplest form, a locket is simply a pendant with a small storage space. The storage space can be created in many ways. However, the most common form of opening is created through a hinged cover. This form of jewelry often holds sentimental value and is often hung with chains. This is because the small locked compartment is generally used to store items or accessories of sentimental value, such as a photograph or small hairpins.
Additionally, lockets can also be used religiously. This is because lockets can be used to store religious mantras and small sacred objects.
Some of the most popular locket designs are:
- Classic Round Locket Design
- Heart Shaped Locket
- Oval Shaped Locket
- Photo Frame Locket
- Vintage Style Locket
These are just some of the popular lockets that have been popular throughout the ages.
What is a Necklace?
Unlike pendants and lockets that have clear-cut definitions, necklaces are a bit hard to define. This is because a necklace refers to any jewelry or accessory that is worn around the neck. Now this includes a wide range of designs such as chokers, beaded mala, and chain necklaces. Some of the most popular types of necklaces are as follows.
- Chain Necklaces: Usually made from metals such as steel, gold and silver and are designed in the form of interlocking links.
- Pendant Necklace: They are generally made from a chain or string with a pendant attached. They come in a wide range of designs.
- Choker Necklace: They are designed to fit snugly around the neck and are generally made from threads or elastic fabrics.
- Beaded Necklace: These necklaces are classic pieces made from a combination of beads. The length can easily be adjusted, and the beads can be customized.
These are just some of the most popular designs for necklaces. Now as you may have noticed, each of these popular types of necklaces has its function. The chain necklaces and Chokers are used for aesthetics. Similarly, the pendant can be used as a keepsake and for sentimental value, and beaded necklaces are a world of their own.
Depending on the type of necklace, the necklace’s size, shape and function vary. The good news about this is that regardless of how niche your needs are, there is a perfect necklace for you!
Pendant Vs. Locket Vs. Necklace: What sets them apart?
By now, you should have a good guess about the core difference between a pendant, locket, and necklace. Although each one of these pieces of jewelry is used interchangeably, they are three completely different accessories. But just for clarity, let’s talk about the core differences individually.
Locket Vs. Pendant Vs. Necklace: Definition
- Pendant: A piece of jewelry or any material with some form of value hung around the chain
- Locket: A pendant with a compartment and some form of the door where we can keep small valuables
- Locket: Any jewelry or accessory that can be worn around the neck
Locket Vs. PendantVs. Necklace: Function
- Pendant: Primarily for aesthetic, religious, or spiritual value
- Locket: Primarily used as a sentimental accessory
- Necklace: Used for both religious, sentimental, and aesthetic
Locket Vs. Pendant Vs. Necklace: Materials
- Pendant: Anything can be a pendant, including bones, metals, and gemstones
- Locket: Generally made from glass, gemstones, and metal
- Necklace: Pearls, wood, seeds, metals, bones, strings, and leathers.
These are the core differences between the pendant, locket, and necklaces. But if you dig deep enough, you can easily find more of these differences.
How to choose the perfect Pendant, Necklace, and Locket for you?
We know that all three of these accessories are their own entity. Now the question is – How do we choose the right one for us? Well, the simplest answer to the question of how to choose the perfect pendant, necklace, or locket is just to go for the one that resonates with you the most. But the following are some of the factors that you should consider.
- Personal Style: Before choosing a necklace, pendant, or locket, you should consider which one you find most appealing as per your personal style.
- Occasion: You can choose between a necklace, pendant, and locket, depending on the occasion. You should consider the level of formality before choosing them.
- Material Quality: You should naturally choose the best materials and quality. Consider durability, resistance and whether or not you are allergic to the materials.
- Budget: This one is simple – buy the necklaces, pendants, and lockets depending on how well your budget is.
These are just some of the factors that affect your decision to choose the right pendant, locket, and necklace for you.
How to care for a necklace, pendant, and locket?
Now that we have gotten a general gist of just about everything let’s talk about cleaning and storing the necklace, pendant, and lockets. So how do we take care of them? This can be divided into three phases, each with its own steps involved. These steps are as follows.
Cleaning
- Using a soft cloth, gently wipe the jewelry after each wear
- Use a solution of warm water and mind soap gently brush the jewelry for a more thorough cleaning
- Do not use harsh chemicals
Storage
- Keep the jewelry clean and dry, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and temperatures.
- Use a soft pouch or a box to avoid tangling
- Keep the jewelry separate
Handling
- Handle the jewelry with clean hands
- Avoid tugging or pulling
- Avoid handing the jewelry on hooks or sharp edges
Naturally, these are just the basics of caring for your necklace, lockets and pendant.
Conclusion
Pieces of jewelry have been an integral aspect of our life for a long period. Among many pieces of jewelry out there, necklaces, pendants, and lockets are among some of the most popular ones. Although the names of these accessories are used interchangeably, they are not the same. Pendants are jewelry that is hung in a chain, lockets are pendants with compartments, and necklaces are simply accessories worn on the neck.
Therefore when using these accessories, you should consider their build, function, and materials. Additionally, you should also consider the materials and personal preferences as well.
We hope you found this helpful and interesting. If you want more insights regarding spiritual accessories such as mala necklaces and singing bowls, do check out some of our other blogs. And as always, thank you for reading till the end.
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a locket, a necklace and a pendant?
A: A pendant is a piece of jewelry hung by a chain or strings, a locket is a pendant with a compartment, and a necklace is simply an accessory worn around the neck.
Q: What is called a pendant?
A: A pendant is a hanging ornament that is suspended from an earring or a necklace.