Traditionally used to guard treasured photographs of loved ones or locks of hair, memory lockets have resurfaced as a big jewellery trend this year.
And right on cue, Astley Clarke has captured the current nostalgia for these jewels from a bygone era with its new Cosmos lockets, the latest edition to its popular Muse collection. Inspired by the ancient craft of mosaic setting, the lockets juxtapose pavé diamonds with enamel and gold in delightful circular combinations.
Designed by Astley Clarke's creative director Lorna Watson at the brand's London studio, the new Cosmos lockets bring this traditional vintage accessory firmly into the 21st century. Billed as the independent girl's version of the eternity ring, the lockets come in two different sizes for two completely different looks.
The larger locket, with a 24mm diameter, is presented in four different versions. Available in yellow or rose gold, the distinctive circular design is embellished with diamond pavé or further accentuated with grey or dark blue enamel. Suspended from a 33-inch chain, these naval-grazing Cosmos lockets are designed to be worn casually long.
The smaller version, available in yellow gold or with a striking circle of midnight blue enamel surrounding the diamond pavé, sits just above the collarbone, with an adjustable chain that can be extended from 16 to 18 inches so that you can find the length that best suits you. The finishing touch is an Astley Clarke star set diamond tag, which is incorporated into the chain of every Cosmos locket. The collection also includes rings and pendants.
Once you've chosen your dream locket, the only decision you'll have to make is what to hide inside.
