What is a fob in jewellery?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
In jewellery, a fob is a small decorative pendant traditionally attached to a watch chain, often a wax seal, coin, locket or charm hung from a short length of chain. Men wore fobs from their waistcoat pocket, and collecting them was fashionable through the 18th and 19th centuries. The term also applies to modern fob necklaces, typically a pendant hung from a belcher or trace chain, which take their name from this tradition. In Australia, 9ct gold belcher fob necklaces are a popular everyday piece.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a fob necklace?
- A fob necklace is a chain, often a belcher or trace chain, with a single pendant or fob hanging from it. The style takes its name from watch fob pendants but is now simply a pendant necklace with that traditional, slightly weighty character.
- What were fobs originally used for?
- They were decorative pendants attached to watch chains, meant to add personal expression and weight to the chain's end. Common fob forms included engraved seals used for wax-stamping letters, lockets, coins and small carved hardstone pieces.
- Are fobs still popular in jewellery today?
- The word fob is most common now in the context of fob necklaces and key fobs, but the pendant tradition continues. Belcher fob necklaces in gold are a perennial staple in Australian jewellery, and personalised seal-style pendants have remained fashionable.
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