Chatelaines and Chains History Notes Book 9

Women in charge of houses and estates wore long chains holding important household items around their waist e.g. keys to bedrooms, storerooms, or tea supplies. Essential items were also carried eg. notebook and pen, a watch, sewing items, vinaigrette or perfume, or a magnifying glass. Early chatelaine were simple essentials. Later chatelaine were decorative and expensive, using precious metals and decorated with gem stones.