Luckenbooth

Guess what?? This ring is called a 'Luckenbooth', and it is a big part of our upcoming story.  So here  is more about this unique Scottish tradition.

The Luckenbooth consists of either one heart, or two entwined hearts topped by a crown.  It was originally brooch, but in time became fashioned into rings and pendants as well.  In Scotland, the Luckenbooth brooch was traditionally given to symbolize betrothal, and later was given to children as a protection against evil.  It was then considered a general good luck charm.  The name Luckenbooth comes from 'locked booth' after the small booths or workshops where they were originally sold.  The booths were located in Edinburgh on the Royal Mile near St. Giles Cathedral.

It is said that since the intertwined hearts resemble the letter M, Lord Darnley gave one decorated with thistle and fleur de lys to his wife, Mary Queen of Scots. After that the Luckenbooth was sometimes known as 'Mary's Brooch'.