Queen Mary "M" Luckenbooth Doves Pendant - Sterling Silver Luk21DPS

The enduring appeal of traditional jewelry is captured in our sterling silver Scottish Luckenbooth. One of the most romantic of the Scottish symbols, the Luckenbooth gained popularity during the 16th century in the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots and gets its name from there sale at the Luckenbooth or "locking booths", small shops on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh which could be securely locked at night.

Luckenbooth’s were traditionally exchanged at the time of betrothal. Considered to be a lucky charm, the Luckenbooth brooches were pinned to an infant's blanket or shawl to guard the baby against evil spirits or the sithean (fairy spirits).
This exquisite finely detailed Luckenbooth is superbly made. This large open work Luckenbooth design features a large stylized "M" in the center to represent Mary Queen of Scots.

This Luckenbooth features two doves holding a flower or garland in the center of the pin. The dove is seen as representing love; it was a symbol of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, and of Venus, her Roman counterpart. Lovers are said to “bill and coo” like doves. The dove is a monogamous bird, which may be the source of its connection with romantic and eternal love.

In addition, this Luckenbooth includes a heart and crown - the "Heart & Crown of Scotland" and was romantically linked to the tragic Mary, Queen of Scots as it was the brooch she had given to Lord Darnley thus the central M. These came to be called "Mary Brooches" or even "Queen Mary Brooches."
This Queen Mary "M" Luckenbooth measures 3.75cm (1-1/2") x 2.75cm (1-1/16") wide. In sterling silver an 18" high quality 18" Italian made box link chain is included. This design is available in sterling silver and karat gold. We also have this with gold doves. See our other listings under Luckenbooths.

This is a gorgeous piece of Scottish jewellery that will become your family heirloom.

This is normally shipped within a few days from stock. These are made 100% in our small Art Studio. We have been in business for 38 years.