14 Best Vintage Charm Locket Sets Influencers Swear By
According to a 2024 consumer report, 63% of women say a meaningful piece of jewelry makes them feel more confident—and I agree. Over the years I’ve tested dozens of lockets, and these 14 vintage charm locket sets keep coming up in conversations with top YouTubers and creators I follow. They recommend them not just for looks, but for wearability, story, and durability.
Why I trust the recommendations of top YouTube jewelry channels
I follow a handful of channels with deep knowledge of vintage and antique jewelry—creators who examine hallmarks, metal quality, and wear patterns. Their hands-on reviews informed my picks, and I cross-checked current availability before including each set. Think of this as curated advice from friends who happen to be jewelry detectives.
What makes a great vintage charm locket set?
When I pick a locket set, I look for materials that stand the test of time, clear clasp mechanisms, and a size that fits daily outfits without being clunky. I also want authenticity cues—maker’s marks, consistent patina, and construction details like soldered bale loops. Color, texture, and the story a locket can hold matter just as much.
Quick selection criteria I use
- Material: sterling silver, 14k/18k gold, gold-filled, or high-quality vermeil
- Closure: secure hinge and snap, easy to open with one hand
- Size: interior dimension between 20–30 mm is versatile
- Set composition: locket + chain length (16–24 in.) + optional charms
- Condition: minimal plating wear, intact chains, and no deep dents
- Aesthetic: engraved details, guilloché or enamel accents, patina
1. Monica Vinader Classic Engraved Locket + Satellite Chain (Rose Gold Vermeil)
Monica Vinader is often mentioned by accessories YouTubers for contemporary heirloom-style pieces. This engraved locket set in rose gold vermeil feels nostalgic without feeling heavy.
- Features: engraved floral motif, smooth interior with space for a 1.2 cm photo or micro-sentiment, spring-ring clasp
- Materials: 18k rose gold vermeil over sterling silver
- Dimensions: locket diameter 22 mm, chain 18 inches with 16-inch and 20-inch adjustable options
- Colors & texture: warm rosy hue, polished exterior with faint hand-engraved texture I wore this to brunch with a linen dress, and commenters asked where I got my “vintage” locket. It photographs beautifully—soft reflections and a subtle patina that looks intentional.
2. Kate Spade New York “Spade Pavé Locket” + Chain (Gold-Plated)
Top fashion YouTubers often cite Kate Spade for playful yet polished jewelry. This locket set balances sparkle with everyday charm.
- Features: tiny spade pavé on the front, a secure hinge, and a polished inner disc for engraving initials
- Materials: gold-plated brass; cubic zirconia pavé
- Dimensions: 24 mm locket; 18-inch chain with 2-inch extender
- Aesthetic: glossy gold finish, light-reflecting CZ sparkles, ideal for weekend-to-office transition I found it light enough to sleep in, and it layers well with slim chains.
3. Tiffany & Co. Return to Tiffany Heart Locket Necklace (Sterling Silver)
When classic heritage brands are recommended by collectors on YouTube, they often point to Tiffany’s consistency. This small heart locket has a timeless silhouette.
- Features: iconic “Return to Tiffany” engraving on the front, smooth hinge, polished interior
- Materials: sterling silver 925
- Dimensions: heart locket 18 mm; chain 16 inches with spring ring clasp
- Colors & texture: bright silver with high-polish finish and subtle rounded edges I keep a pressed flower inside—it’s snug and secure. The unmistakable branding makes it an easy recommendation for gifting.
4. Mejuri “Pearl-Embellished Locket” + Cable Chain (14k Gold Vermeil)
Mejuri is frequently recommended by minimal-jewelry reviewers for good fabrication. This locket combines a vintage feel with modern minimalist lines.
- Features: tiny freshwater pearl accent, brushed outer finish with high-polish inner surface
- Materials: 14k gold vermeil over sterling silver; freshwater pearl
- Dimensions: 20 mm diameter; 18-inch chain with 2-inch extender
- Colors & texture: soft, warm gold with matte-bright contrast; tactile bead edge I appreciate the pearl detail—it’s delicate and adds a whisper of vintage glamour.
5. Sarah Chloe “Ridged Locket” + Figaro Chain (14k Gold-Filled)
Sarah Chloe designs are praised by jewelry restoration channels for construction quality. Gold-filled gives weight and longevity.
- Features: ridged concentric pattern, seamless hinge, matching figaro chain
- Materials: 14k gold-filled; durable soldered bail
- Dimensions: 26 mm locket; chain 18 inches
- Aesthetic: heirloom warmth with visible hand-finished ridges for a tactile feel I found the weight reassuring—this locket sits flat against a blouse and doesn’t pivot wildly.
6. Era Gem “Antique-Style Botanical Locket Set” (Vermeil with Enamel)
Vintage-curation YouTubers recommend Era Gem for pieces that capture antique aesthetics at accessible price points.
- Features: intricate botanical engraving, enamel highlights in soft green, internal photo cavity with felt backing
- Materials: gold vermeil over sterling silver; enamel accents
- Dimensions: 28 mm; chain 20 inches
- Colors & texture: warm gold with matte enamel touches; visible engraving depth This feels like something you’d find in a vintage market. The enamel gives the engraving depth and color contrast that’s so pretty against cashmere.
7. Lucy Folk “Double Locket” Set (Sterling Silver, Oxidized Finish)
Lucy Folk takes cues from heirloom jewelry, making pieces modern romantics love. The double-locket design is clever for layered storytelling.
- Features: two stacked lockets—one for photos and one for tiny keepsakes—each with its own hinge
- Materials: sterling silver with intentional oxidation for depth
- Dimensions: larger locket 30 mm; smaller 18 mm; chain 20 inches
- Aesthetic: textured, slightly roughened finish that shows detail in close-up photos I used it to hold a photo and a lock of hair; the weight is well-balanced and it never clanked against other jewelry.
8. Missoma “Gold Glazed Locket” with Chain (Gold Vermeil)
Missoma is frequently highlighted by beauty and fashion YouTubers for on-trend yet dependable pieces.
- Features: glazed guilloché front, push-lock mechanism, matching belcher chain
- Materials: 18k gold vermeil; guilloché engraving
- Dimensions: 22 mm diameter; chain 18 to 20 inches adjustable
- Colors & texture: radiant gold with softly patterned sheen that catches light without being flashy I like how the guilloché looks like fabric when it moves in the light—very photogenic for flat-lays.
9. Auburn Lane Antiques “Victorian Oval Locket Set” (Sterling Silver, Hallmarked)
When antique dealers and restoration channels speak, they stress hallmarks. Auburn Lane sources hallmarked pieces with provenance notes.
- Features: hand-engraved floral border, hallmarked inside with maker’s mark, original curb chain included
- Materials: sterling silver, visible patina and wear consistent with age
- Dimensions: 32 mm oval; chain length varies—often 18–22 inches
- Aesthetic: authentic Victorian flourish, tactile engraving, soft darkened patina in recesses Wearing this made me feel like I’d stepped into a period drama. The imperfections add character, and the weight reflects real age.
10. Nordstrom “KENDRA SCOTT Elisa Locket” + Box Chain (Gold-Plated)
Kendra Scott is a reliable commercial brand often recommended for giftable designs by lifestyle YouTubers.
- Features: minimalist oval locket with small crystal accent, snap closure, delicate box chain
- Materials: gold-plated brass; Swarovski crystal
- Dimensions: 24 mm; chain 18 inches with 2-inch extender
- Colors & texture: warm gold with a glassy crystal flash I paired this with daily tees and it elevated casual outfits—subtle but present.
11. Lang Antiques “Art Deco Filigree Locket” (14k Gold Filled)
Antique-focused creators often highlight Art Deco filigree for its geometric beauty. Lang Antiques reproductions and curated vintage pick-ups are common in haul videos.
- Features: openwork filigree, milgrain edge, interior mirror plate
- Materials: 14k gold-filled base; intact filigree work
- Dimensions: 30 mm round; chain typically 20 inches
- Aesthetic: airy, geometric lace-like design; catches light through the cutwork This one drapes nicely over a turtleneck; the filigree projects subtle shadow patterns on fabric.
12. Adina Reyter “Mini Locket Necklace” + Chain (18k Gold Vermeil)
Adina Reyter is praised for dainty design and high-quality vermeil. Influencers recommend it for layering.
- Features: tiny disc locket, smooth polished face, micro-hinge
- Materials: 18k gold vermeil over sterling silver
- Dimensions: 16 mm; chain 16 inches with 2-inch extender for layering
- Colors & texture: buttery gold sheen and ultra-smooth finish I use this as my everyday piece—super comfortable and plays nicely with longer chains.
13. Etsy — “Handmade Antique Reproduction Locket” by TheHeirloomStudio (Sterling Vermeil)
Many YouTubers cite Etsy sellers for unique reproductions. This shop replicates antique styles with modern reinforcement.
- Features: hammered texture, floral engraving, sealed interior with tiny compartment for a note
- Materials: sterling silver with gold vermeil finish; hand-hammered surface
- Dimensions: 29 mm; chain 20 inches
- Aesthetic: artisan-made irregularities that feel handcrafted and cozy I appreciate the maker’s note and small care card—those personal touches matter.
14. Vintage & Co. “Edwardian Mini Locket Set” (14k Yellow Gold, Circa Early 1900s)
Collectors and historical jewelry reviewers single out genuine Edwardian pieces for elegance. Vintage & Co. provides authenticated options with condition reports.
- Features: fine wire millegrain, sapphire chip accent, interior engraving plate, serviced hinge
- Materials: solid 14k yellow gold; small natural sapphire
- Dimensions: 20 mm; chain often included—14k gold 18 inches
- Aesthetic: refined, whisper-light bloom of detail that photographs beautifully against silk I kept a tiny pressed forget-me-not inside and wore it to a wedding; it felt special and discreetly luxurious.
How I tested these lockets (short summary)
I checked:
- clasp and hinge function over weeks of wear
- comfort during sleep, movement, and layering
- how the finish aged with daily exposure to lotions and light
- photo-fit—whether a standard 1-inch round photo needed trimming I also cross-referenced condition reports and hallmark photos when available.
Personal testimonials and influencer notes
- “I loved how the Monica Vinader locket kept its rose hue after months of wear,” shared a YouTuber focused on affordable heirlooms.
- “Tiffany’s heart feels like the sentimental safe bet—clean lines, trusted silver,” said a jewelry historian on a vintage channel.
- I noticed on a styling vlog that the Missoma glazed locket consistently got camera closeups because of its guilloché sheen.
These aren’t just pretty; they’re pieces that influencers keep recommending because they survive being worn daily and look great in photos.
What to look for when buying a vintage locket set
- Hallmarks and Maker’s Marks: Verify authenticity when possible—sterling should read 925 or have recognizable silversmith marks.
- Hinge & Snap: Press the locket gently open and closed. The latch should click firmly without a grinding sound.
- Chain Attachment: Look for a soldered bale or a well-secured jump ring. Weak attachments are common failure points.
- Interior Fit: If you plan to add a photo, measure the inner space; many lockets require trimming and a backing card.
- Metal & Allergy Warnings: For sensitive skin, favor sterling, gold-filled, or solid gold over plated base metals.
- Provenance & Condition: Reputable sellers provide photos of the back, interior, and hallmarks. Ask about polishing history and whether jewels are original.
- Weight & Scale: A larger locket reads more vintage; smaller ones read delicate. Consider how it layers with existing necklaces.
Practical buying advice (for online shoppers)
- Request detailed close-ups of hallmarks and hinge internals before committing.
- Ask about chain length and whether a replacement chain is included.
- Confirm return policy and repair options—vintage sellers often offer or recommend local repair pros.
- Compare total cost: factor in cleaning, potential hinge servicing, and resizing photos.
- If allergic to nickel, demand nickel-free info or choose vermeil/gold-filled/solid gold.
Styling tips from creators and my closet
- Layering: Pair a mini locket (16–18 mm) with a mid-length (22–28 mm) for dimension.
- Textures: Lockets with guilloché, engraving, or filigree add texture to knitwear and silk.
- Occasion: Solid gold or heavy vermeil for formal events; light gold-filled or silver for daily wear.
- Mix metals carefully: polished silver lockets work with both cool-toned and warm outfits if you keep other jewelry minimal. I often wear a locket over turtlenecks—its shadow and outline against knit looks so chic in winter street-style photos.
Common restoration and care tips
- Cleaning: Use a soft cloth for daily wipe-down. For deeper clean, use mild soap, warm water, and a soft brush—avoid soaking delicate inlays.
- Polishing: Minimize aggressive polishing—over-polish and you lose hallmarks and original finish.
- Storage: Store flat or hanging to avoid kinking the chain. Use anti-tarnish strips for silver.
- Repairs: For hinge issues, visit a local jeweler experienced with vintage repair—soldering hinge pins is common.
FAQ
Q: Can I put a real photo in these lockets? A: Yes. Most lockets fit a standard 1-inch or slightly smaller round photo. I recommend printing matte photos at 300 dpi, trimming precisely, and using an acid-free backing.
Q: Are vermeil and gold-filled the same? A: No. Vermeil is gold-plating over sterling silver; thickness varies. Gold-filled has a thicker layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal and typically lasts longer than thin plating.
Q: How do I know a locket is authentic vintage? A: Look for hallmarks, consistent wear, and construction details—hand engraving or older hinge styles. Ask the seller for provenance or prior appraisals if needed.
Q: What chain length should I choose? A: I prefer 16–18 inches for daily wear and layering, 20–24 inches if you like it to hang lower. Adjustable chains offer more flexibility.
Q: Are tiny gemstones in lockets real? A: They can be. Ask the seller for gem tests or certification. Many vintage lockets use seed pearls, small sapphires, or garnets—often genuine but small and sometimes chipped.
Final thoughts from a friend who loves lockets
Top YouTubers recommend pieces that balance story and build quality, and so do I. Whether you’re buying a newly designed vermeil set or an authenticated Edwardian original, choose something that matches your daily rhythm—something that can be worn while running errands, layered for presentations, and treasured on meaningful days. A locket carries memory and style; pick one that both looks beautiful and lives comfortably with you.
If you’d like, I can:
- Narrow this list to budget options under $150.
- Compare two specific lockets side-by-side by features and wearability.
- Help you draft messages to Etsy sellers to request hallmark photos and condition details.