What distinguishes a pendant from a locket?

Both pendants and lockets are jewelry items worn as accessories, but they have distinct differences in terms of design and functionality. A pendant is a decorative ornament that hangs from a chain or necklace. It usually consists of a single charm or medallion without any compartment to hold something. Pendants can come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, and they are primarily used for aesthetic purposes to enhance one's personal style or as a symbol of meaning or sentiment. In contrast, a locket is a type of pendant that incorporates a small compartment or space within it. This compartment is typically used for storing and carrying a small photograph, a lock of hair, or other sentimental items. Lockets often have a hinge or clasp that allows the compartment to be opened and closed securely. They have a more nostalgic and intimate appeal, as they can hold cherished memories or serve as a keepsake for a loved one. While pendants are purely decorative, lockets have a dual purpose of accessorizing and preserving sentimental objects.