From nostalgic childhood treasures to symbolic keepsakes, Links of London’s doll-themed charms stand among the most beloved in their historic jewellery line. Two designs in particular — a vintage rag doll with movable legs and a modern reinterpretation called the Little Girl with Pink Dress — showcase the brand’s talent for combining craftsmanship with sentimentality. This Design Archive entry traces the evolution of these miniature figures, their features, variations, and their enduring charm.

Vintage Rag Doll Charm (Pink Enamel Dress, Movable Legs)

Released in the mid-2000s, this early charm features a 3D rag doll-style figure with pigtails, a pale pink enamel dress, and articulated legs that swing freely. Crafted from solid 925 sterling silver and finished with delicate hand-applied enamel, this charm quickly became a collector favourite. It was often referred to simply as the “Little Girl” charm before official naming conventions became more consistent.

• Design: Classic rag doll figure with pink enamel dress and movable legs
• Materials: Solid sterling silver (925), hand-applied pale pink enamel
• Hallmarks: LL 925, typically with a date letter — most common example is 2009
• Dimensions: ~21mm high (doll alone), ~32mm incl. bail; ~7–11mm wide; 2–2.6g weight
• Bail: 9mm × 7mm standard Links of London bail, fits up to 5mm wide bracelets/necklaces
• Special Features: Movable articulated legs, enamel surface sits proud (not recessed)

The enamel, though durable, was surface-applied — meaning minor wear or chipping can occur over time. Still, many examples survive in excellent condition. The doll’s vintage styling and novelty of movement set it apart from later solid forms.

Rarity & Variations

This charm was quietly retired before 2010 and is now considered rare. It was likely produced in multiple limited enamel colour variants:

• Pink Dress: The standard and most common version
• Blue Dress: Known to exist, extremely rare and highly collectible
• Lemon Dress: Pale yellow enamel variant possibly released regionally or in limited runs

Vintage 2009 Links of London Rag Doll Charm – Pink Enamel Dress & Movable Legs

The original product code remains undocumented but likely predates the 5030.1835 series, potentially within the 5030.1xxx range.

Little Girl with Pink Dress (2010s Re-Design – Code 5030.1835)

In 2016–2017, Links of London reintroduced the concept with a redesigned charm titled Little Girl with Pink Dress. Released under product code 5030.1835, it was part of the Moments or Keepsakes collection and aimed at commemorating young girls or newborns. Unlike its predecessor, this charm has fixed legs and a more modern, durable build.

• Design: Solid figure with pigtails and recessed pink enamel dress
• Materials: Sterling silver with recessed glossy pink enamel
• Features: One solid piece (no articulation), polished and robust
• Bail: Standard Links bail with split ring
• Release: Circa 2017
• Retail Price: £45–£50 at launch

While it mirrors the original’s sweet styling, the reissue focused on longevity — with its recessed enamel better protected against wear. It was promoted as a christening or keepsake gift, designed for everyday wear or as part of a symbolic collection.

Other Related Charms in the “Doll & Child” Category

Links of London created several other charms along similar themes:

• Little Boy Charm (5030.1834): Released alongside the 5030.1835 Little Girl, featuring a boy figure in blue enamel, often gifted to mark the birth of a son.
• Russian Nesting Doll Charm (Matryoshka): Egg-shaped charm with engraved detailing, referencing traditional Russian folklore dolls. Does not open but includes outer-doll decoration. Taller than standard charms.
• 18ct Gold Girl Charm: A luxury edition crafted in two-tone 18ct yellow and white gold, without enamel. Design resembled the rag doll silhouette and was offered as a precious alternative.
• Other Toy-Inspired Charms: Articulated teddy bears, prams, booties, and fairies/angels were also released — continuing the childhood keepsake theme across several years.

Vintage 2008 Links of London Sterling Silver Russian Doll Charm

Materials & Craftsmanship

Both the vintage and modern girl charms were crafted in solid 925 sterling silver, with enamel detailing and the iconic Links of London threaded bail system. The vintage version features surface enamel and movable joints, while the modern one includes recessed enamel and a single-piece structure. Each was hallmarked and offered in split-ring format to attach easily to Sweetie bracelets or chains.

Summary

These two charms — the Articulated Rag Doll of the 2000s and the Little Girl with Pink Dress of 2017 — form a timeline of design evolution from playful vintage whimsy to refined, practical heirloom. Both remain highly collectible, cherished not only for their miniature beauty but for the memories and milestones they represent.