As it is the month of February and Valentine’s Day fast approaches, I have decided to explore the many manifestations of love symbols as depicted in antique jewelry, from the traditional heart, to the less usual Luckenbooth Brooch and the truly unique antique love symbol, the snake ring. I have enjoyed exploring these outrageous and romantic symbols. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have.
Dating back as early as the 17th century when these lovely and romantic brooches wereoriginally sold at “luckenbooths” or ‘locked-booths’ located on the Royal Mall near St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland. The ‘Luckenbooth’ has long been a romantic Scottish gesture.
Typically created in silver, a crown rests over two intertwined hearts. The crown symbolizes fidelity and the hearts love according to some sources. Others note the crown as a symbol of Mary Queen of Scots.
A Scottish love token, the Luckenbooth Brooch, is often exchanged upon the occasion of a betrothal and traditionally worn by a woman. Representing betrothal, affection and friendship the brooch is beautiful and symbolic. After being given on the occasion of an engagement, a couple would often pin the brooch on the blanket of their first-born’s blanket for good luck.
Physically beautiful and symbolically sweetly sentimental, the Luckenbooth Brooch is a perfect Valentine’s Day gesture that can be worn the year round.
