Let me start by saying this locket exceeded my expectations. When I first held it, I was shocked by how lightweight it felt—almost like plastic—but the polished gold finish and genuine diamond accent immediately proved its worth. After 3 months of daily wear (yes, even in the shower!), it still looks brand new with zero tarnishing.
The hypoallergenic quality is a game-changer for sensitive skin. Unlike cheaper lockets that leave green marks, this one stays irritation-free. The oval shape strikes the perfect balance between noticeable and subtle—I've received compliments at work meetings when it catches the light.
Now for the not-so-great: The included 18" chain is disappointingly fragile. Mine snapped during a toddler hug session (worth noting many reviewers had this issue). I replaced it with a sturdier 14k chain from my jewelry box, which elevated the whole piece. Also, inserting photos requires precision—the 10x15mm size means you'll need to carefully trim standard prints.
Pro tip: Use locketphotoprints.com (free!) to resize images before printing at Walgreens. The hinge mechanism feels durable, but test the closure immediately—one reviewer got a defective unit that wouldn't shut properly.
For under $50? Absolute steal. It looks like jewelry worth triple the price, especially after swapping the chain. Just don't gift it in the basic ziploc bag it arrives in—spring for a proper box to match its elegance.