About
The Scottish Luckenbooth
The ‘Luckenbooth’ dates back many centuries in Scotland. They gained
popularity during the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots and still hold a
significant meaning today.
‘Luckenbooths’ are said to be so called as they were first sold from
"locked booths" in Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
Traditionally, they were exchanged between lovers on their betrothal,
and subsequently were pinned to their baby’s shawl to protect the child
from evil spirits.
These heart-shaped brooches, surmounted by the crown of Mary Queen of
Scots, and often decorated with the Scottish Thistle, are one of the
most romantic artefacts
from Scotland's rich history, resulting in their enduring appeal.
The Luckenbooth Legend...
The Luckenbooth design has very romantic
origins. It is said to have been deigned as the betrothal brooch for
Mary Queen of Scots from the Dauphin of France whom she
married in 1558, hence the two hearts surrounded by the crown.
In those days brooches were given instead of rings for betrothal, and
the design was copied and sold from the “Locked Booths” near St Giles
Cathedral in Edinburgh’s Royal
Mile.