The medallion - A small piece of jewelry with great significance

More than just a piece of jewelry: why medallions touch

A locket is more than just a decorative pendant – it is a personal treasure, a symbol of remembrance and an expression of individual stories. As a wearable secret or visible sign of solidarity, it combines emotion, tradition and style in a unique way.

In a world where jewelry is often mass-produced, lockets retain a touch of intimacy and soul. Pieces of jewelry with a personal touch are becoming increasingly important. Whether filled with a photo, an engraving or a small memento – lockets are an emotional anchor in everyday life and therefore the perfect gift for loved ones or a loving companion for yourself.

In this article you will find out:

What is a medallion? – Definition and basic functions

A medallion is more than just a jewelry pendant – it is a wearable secret. The term itself comes from the French médaillon, derived from the Italian medaglione, which originally referred to a large medal. Even in earlier centuries, such pieces of jewelry were used to carry mementos – often in the form of miniature portraits or small relics.
 

What distinguishes a locket from conventional pendants?

Medallions have an interior that can be opened up
They are more functional than purely decorative pendants
They invite personalization – through pictures, engravings or small objects
 

Typical features of a medallion are:

Hinged design – with hinge and a discreet, secure closure
Interior – offers space for small pictures or personal mementos
Shapes – mostly available in round, oval or heart-shaped versions
Materials – often made of precious metals such as silver or gold, often decorated or kept simple with space for personal engravings

The combination of a piece of jewelry and an emotional memento makes the medallion something very special. It is not only beautiful on the outside, but also tells a personal story on the inside – quietly but meaningfully.
 

The history of the medallion – From antiquity to the present day

Medallions have a tradition dating back thousands of years and are deeply rooted in cultural history:

Antiquity: The first forms of pendants with intrinsic value - so-called amulets - already existed in ancient times. They were usually made of metal or stone and were intended to protect the wearer from evil spirits, illness or misfortune. The symbolic and spiritual character of these early medallions was of great importance.

Middle Ages: The medallion underwent further changes in the Middle Ages. It now often served as a protective symbol or relic carrier, containing sacred objects or blessings. Many of these medallions were elaborately crafted and decorated with religious motifs – an expression of deeply rooted faith and hope in divine assistance.

Renaissance & Baroque: With the Renaissance and Baroque, the medallion found its way into high society. Nobility and wealthy citizens wore medallions as a sign of status and  taste. Inside, miniature portraits or locks of hair were now also found  signs of affection and remembrance. Jewelry became a form of expression of identity, not just of faith.

Victorian era: The Victorian era in the 19th century was particularly influential. During this period, medallions were developed to commemorate deceased relatives. Black enameled models with hidden photos or hair were widespread. The emotional depth of these pieces of jewelry made them real mementos.

Modernity: Today, the medallion is experiencing a new heyday. In the modern world of jewelry, it stands for lifestyle, fashion awareness and individuality. Whether simple, minimalist or elaborately decorated - medallions adapt to the spirit of the times and combine tradition with personal style. Their symbolic power remains alive and relevant to this day.

Each era gave the medallion a new meaning - and yet its core remained unchanged: a piece of jewelry with heart and depth.
 

Types of medallions – variety in detail

Medallions are as individual as the people who wear them. Their shapes, functions and designs have evolved greatly over time - from classic keepsakes to modern lifestyle accessories. But one thing remains the same: every locket tells a story.
 

Classic medallion variants:

• Medallion with picture frame: The best-known variant is the classic locket with a picture frame. Inside there is space for one or two miniature photos – often of loved ones, pets or special moments. This type of locket is ideal for carrying memories with you at all times.
• Medallion with engraving: Another popular form is the medallion with an engraved surface, either on the outside or inside. Names, dates, symbols or short messages can be engraved here – perfect for gifts for special occasions such as weddings, births or anniversaries.

Medallions for pictures often have a nice option to combine them with an engraving.
 

Shapes and designs:

• Heart medallions as a symbol of love
• Oval or round medallions for a timeless appearance
• Medallion variants with floral patterns, ornaments or a vintage look

Special designs:

• Medallions decorated with gemstones, zirconia or pearls
• Scented medallions for essential oils or perfume
• Modern smart locks with digital functions

This medallion variety shows: Medallions do not stand still – they continue to develop and combine tradition with innovation. The result is an impressive selection that has the right piece of jewelry for every taste and occasion.
 

Emotional meaning and symbolic power – Why medallions are so much more than jewelry

A locket is far more than just a stylish accessory – it is a symbol of deep connection. Inside it often hides a very personal story that is incomparable to any other piece of jewelry.

It is particularly often used as a memento for loved ones or pets – a small portrait, a strand of hair or an engraving keeps the closeness to a loved one alive. The locket also stands for strong interpersonal values.
 

A medallion symbolizes:

Love – in the form of a joint photo or a romantic engraved text
Friendship – through shared memories or a suitable quote
The family – as a sign of family affiliation and cross-generational ties

It is not uncommon for a locket to be worn as a talisman. In many cultures, it is considered a lucky charm or protective amulet. Medallions with spiritual motifs or religious symbols in particular can have a deeper meaning – for example as a sign of faith or as a companion on life's journey.

A medallion is also a gift with emotional value. Personalized and carefully selected, it becomes a lasting memento. Whether for a birth, an anniversary or as a sign of farewell – lockets touch the heart and create a connection that lasts far beyond the moment.
 

Engravings, pictures & Contents – What goes inside?

The special thing about a locket is its secret interior – a small treasure chamber for what really counts. Whether classic engraving, a lovingly selected photo or a creative surprise: the design options are varied and make each locket unique.

Medallion engravings are among the most popular forms of personalization. Which engravings are suitable for medallions?  

• Initials or full names
• Important dates such as birthdays or wedding anniversaries
• Short quotes or life mottos

Tip: Less is more – a concise message often has the greatest impact.

If you want to use photos, you should pay attention to the details:

• Choose images with clear contrast and good resolution
• Adjust the print size exactly to the medallion format
• Use high-quality, preferably matt photo paper for a classy look and feel

The result is a small work of art with great emotional power.

In addition to photos and engravings, there are creative alternatives:

• A strand of hair from a loved one or pet
• A small handwritten message
• An imprint of the finger or baby's hand

This turns a medallion into a Scented medallion:
Anyone who wants to make their medallion functional and fragrant can also insert a felt pad into the medallion instead of pictures. This can be sprinkled with essential oils. This quickly turns the locket into a mini perfume bottle so you can always carry your favorite fragrance with you. This turns the jewelry into a very special experience, not only visually but also olfactorily.

Whether traditionally or modernly interpreted – the content makes the locket a personal companion that preserves memories and captures emotions in precious silver or gold.
 

Medallions as a gift – Personal and stylish for any occasion

A locket is a gift that is touching – emotional, timeless and full of meaning. It is suitable for almost any moment in life where feelings need to be expressed and memories captured. Medallions are particularly popular as a birthday, anniversary or wedding gift. They also unfold their full symbolic power in moments of mourning, on Mother's Day or for the birth of a child.

For whom is a locket the perfect gift?

• For partners – As a sign of love with personal engraving
• For parents – with a picture or memory that shows that family is the most important thing
• For children – as a first reminder of an important event or as a strength-giving companion in everyday life
• For close friends – as a sign of deep solidarity and appreciation

The medallion not only impresses with its emotional impact, but also with its versatility. With individual content, it becomes a very personal lucky charm, memento or stylish accessory.
 

How do you turn a medallion into an unforgettable gift?

• Take care of the packaging: For example, like our cute little palm leaf bags
• Add a personal dedication: For example as a handwritten card or poem
• Handover as part of a shared moment: for example at dinner, on a walk or as a surprise in everyday life

Giving a medallion as a gift means making emotions tangible – in a form that lasts. Stylish, personal and unforgettable.
 

Medallions in art, film and literature – Symbolic narrative objects with a history

Medallions are far more than just pieces of jewelry – they have played an important role in art, film and literature for centuries. Their ability to preserve memories and guard secrets makes them the ideal symbol of emotional depth and human connection.
 

In well-known films and novels, medallions are often at the center of the plot:

• Titanic: The heart of the ocean – a blue medallion as a symbol of love and loss
• Jane Eyre: A hidden medallion with family secrets intertwines with the protagonist's identity
• Harry Potter: The locket of Salazar Slytherin – magical, powerful and full of dark history

Medallions also appear regularly in the visual arts – as miniature portraits, relics of saints or gifts of love. They not only embody the person depicted, but also their emotional significance for the wearer.

In paintings and sculptures, medallions often stand for remembrance, transience or eternal fidelity.
 

Typical of the medallion in art:

• It contains a secret that is only revealed in the course of the story
• It connects past and present – often across generations
• It symbolizes love, loss, origin or identity

Medallions fascinate because they carry true stories within them – visible and invisible. Whether on canvas, in the pages of novels or on canvases: They are small objects with great symbolic power.
 

Conclusion – Medallions: emotion, style and meaning combined in one piece of jewelry

Medallions are much more than pretty accessories. They combine emotional value, timeless elegance and individual design options – and are therefore among the most meaningful pieces of jewelry of all.

As pendants with an inner life, they tell stories, preserve memories and make stylish statements.

Why a medallion is more than just an accessory:

• It tells stories – of love, family or special moments
• It can be customized – with engravings, pictures or small messages
• It remains timeless – independent of trends or age groups

Whether as a gift, heirloom or very personal companion in everyday life:

A locket is ideal for anyone who wants to preserve memories in style. It adapts – in shape, material and content – and makes every look more meaningful.
 

A medallion is:

• Stylish and emotional
• Versatile and personal
• A timeless classic with endless design options

Why a medallion should not be missing from your jewelry box:

• It is an ideal gift for special occasions such as birthdays, Mother's Day or anniversaries
• It can be personalized with engravings or photos – for a unique look
• It suits every style: from classic-elegant to modern-minimalist
• It creates emotional closeness – to loved ones, moments or memories

If you are looking for a gift with meaning in the Love Your Diamonds store or would like to wear a personal piece of jewelry yourself, a locket is the right choice. Whether it's a heart locket, a round vintage version or a modern scented locket - the variety is great, the effect all the greater.
 

Tip for selecting medallions:

When buying, pay attention to high-quality materials such as 925 sterling silver, good workmanship and the possibility of individual design – this will make the locket a long-lasting companion.

A medallion connects what counts: Memories, style and personality – in a piece of jewelry that lasts.