Double Heart Lock
1. Historical Origins
The "Concentric Lock" (a symbol of eternal love) originated in China with a long history. Legend traces it to an ancient couple deeply in love—her merchant father, refusing to let her marry a poor man, betrothed her to an official’s son.
On the wedding day, the young man rescued his bride, and they fled to the mountains. Trapped by pursuers, they clasped hands and leaped off a cliff. All that remained was a stone lock inscribed with their names—said to be the Moon Matchmaker (Yue Lao) transforming them to bind their love for eternity.
To honor their devotion, people visit Yue Lao Temples on his birthday (15th day of the 8th lunar month) to hang concentric locks. Singles pray for a destined partner, while couples engrave their names to wish for lasting love.
2. Culture & Meaning
The most essential symbolism of the "Concentric Lock" lies in "uniting hearts as one," representing unwavering love and eternal commitment between lovers. Legend has it that Yue Lao (the Moon Matchmaker, deity of marriage in Chinese mythology) possesses a magical concentric lock—couples bound by it will never be separated. If their love deeply moves him, he will bestow this lock upon them, linking their hearts for lifetimes to come.
Beyond romantic love, the concentric lock also symbolizes friendship and family bonds. In friendship, it stands for profound camaraderie and mutual support; in family, it embodies harmony and lasting happiness.
2.1 Eternal Love
The Concentric Lock symbolizes unwavering loyalty and an unbreakable, eternal commitment between lovers. Those deeply in love aspire to "lock" their lifelong affection with this special lock, letting it witness their most sincere and devoted bond.
2.2 Spiritual Unity
It signifies that two hearts are tightly connected by a shared lock, inseparable even in the face of life’s changes. It represents a profound spiritual bond—one that upholds mutual promises through all storms and uncertainties.
2.3 Auspicious Blessings
In traditional culture, locks themselves embody auspiciousness, longevity, and peace. The Concentric Lock elevates this symbolism by adding the beauty of romantic love, making it a token of comprehensive good fortune.