What is a chatelaine? 

A chatelaine is an elaborate clasp with multiple small chains dangling from it. Tiny useful items are attached to the bottom of each chain. A chatelain is traditionally hung from a belt and rides at the waist or hip, so the tools can be easily within reach whenever you need them. 

History of chatelaines 

Chatelaines have a long history, both as practical items and decorative accessories. The word chatelaine has French origins and was once used to refer to a woman who oversees a mansion, estate, or castle. The word then became attached to the ring of keys that such a woman would carry around with her. Soon, the definition expanded, and instead of just keys, a chatelaine tethered all sorts of small items like scissors, thimbles, and watches. By Victorian times, wearing a chatelaine was popular for women of all walks of life, and it began to be a stylish accessory, often crafted out of silver or gold with elaborate shapes and even tiny gemstones embedded in the design to give it an added sparkle. 

What sort of things would you find on a chatelaine? 

• Thimbles — Many people in the Victorian era spent long hours sewing, and a thimble was a useful item to have on hand. 

• Scissors — Scissors could come in handy in a variety of ways: cutting a loose thread, sewing, cutting flowers from the garden, etc.

• Keys — A chatelaine was a good place to keep multiple keys to different rooms and to various boxes or closets. 

• Mirror — A tiny mirror was a luxury that allowed the owner to keep themselves presentable. 

• Locket — Lockets were perfect for carrying around the image of a loved one. 

• Watch — With a watch dangling from a chatelaine, the wearer could always be on time. 

• Seal — A seal was an important item for writing letters, and a chatelain was a good place to keep the tiny object. 

• Vinaigrette — Vinaigrettes are small, elaborately decorated boxes that usually held perfume and were often attached to the chatelaine. 

Why use a chatelaine today? 

Chatelaines are still used today, primarily as heirloom items that can be passed from one generation to the next. Not only are high-quality chatelaines beautiful, but they are also durable and can be used just like they were in earlier times. A chatelaine is ideal for a sewing enthusiast. It is a great way to keep all the odds and ends together, and it looks beautiful as well. 

For more information, contact an heirloom chatelaine supplier.