I can just imagine how some family dinner conversations must go. I bet the Clintons talk about politics, the Weinsteins talk about film, and the Missoni’s talk about (or rather look at) stripes and patterns. Who knows if any of that’s true, but I wouldn’t be surprised. At least that’s been the case for my family. Since my mom started her own fine jewelry and home accessories business seven years ago, the conversation at my family’s dinner table has been largely about jewelry, specifically lockets. Now people know that asking a Kosann kid why she loves lockets is like asking Chelsea Clinton why she’s a democrat. No need for explanation.
Having said that, I believe it is important to tell you that lockets are the ultimate heirloom. I realize I’m biased, but hear me out: Lockets have been a fashion favorite since the Victorian era. The fact that they are not only meaningful and beautiful, but also a way to carry a loved one with you (close to your heart) wherever you go is what makes this accessory so personal, timeless and special. Finding vintage lockets–at flea markets, in antique shops, or on eBay—isn’t difficult. However, finding one with an incredible back-story (my mom’s specialty) is. Its no wonder many people resort to buying a new one (a great consolation prize) and creating their own back-story from scratch.
My personal locket story starts with my mom’s passion and my love for fashion. While some people still prefer to wear a traditional single pendant on a simple, short chain, like actress Katie Holmes, I personally love to pile on jewelry all around my locket. Layering is a stylish way to modernize a classic piece, not to mention make it more versatile. My mom loves mixing and matching her lockets with other necklaces, too. The only difference is her lockets all have pictures of me and my sister. Mine, on the other hand, are filled with photos of my dogs.
With Mother’s Day around the corner, a locket is a perfect gift for any mom. Unfortunately, it’s not a present I can give my own mother. She already has one (or more likely 20). But maybe my gift to her this year is to finally fill my lockets with the familiar faces of people I love…like, you, Mom. Happy Mother’s Day!
Would you like to win a Monica Rich Kosann Sterling Silver Round Hammered Locket (estimated value: $400)? To enter your name in this special Mother’s Day giveaway, simply sign up for our free e-weekly newsletter before May 9th (the day we announce the lucky winner). For more information on Monica Rich Kosann collections, visit shop.fineartoffamily.com.
Published on May 4, 2010
While there are many sites today dedicated to the pursuit of fashion and style, here at MRK Style we approach these subjects through a collector’s lens. Through exploring how people relate to Art, Family, Fashion, Food, Film and Travel—essentially life’s various, everyday obsessions—we reflect on how we all live with the things we love. 
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