The Footprints in the Sand Flip Flop Charm is one of Links of London’s most memorable miniature designs — part of a beloved series that captured moments of hope, faith, and togetherness through jewellery. Inspired by the famous poem “Footprints in the Sand”, this piece symbolises the comforting thought that you’re never alone on life’s journey.

Vintage Links of London Flip Flop Charm | Footprints in the Sand & Heart Detail

Design & Symbolism

This charm is crafted in solid 925 sterling silver and takes the form of a tiny summer sandal. On this particular version, the sole is inscribed with the full wording “Footprints in the Sand” — an unusual engraved variant that sets it apart from the more common footprint pattern versions.

Vintage Links of London Flip Flop Charm | Footprints in the Sand & Heart Detail

Adding to its uniqueness, the thong strap features a tiny heart detail that was originally highlighted with gold plating — now naturally softened and faint from age and careful polishing. This small detail hints at its heartfelt symbolism and the gentle, worn-in feel that collectors often love in true vintage pieces.

Vintage Links of London Flip Flop Charm | Footprints in the Sand & Heart Detail

Dimensions & Details

• Size: Flip flop: 18 mm long × 7 mm wide × 4 mm thick (21 mm including jump ring)
• Material: Solid sterling silver, faint gold plating on heart
• Engraving: Sole reads “Footprints in the Sand”
• Bail: Standard Links of London 9 mm × 7 mm oval bail, marked S925 and 3-ring logo — typical for very late production before the brand’s closure

Vintage Links of London Flip Flop Charm | Footprints in the Sand & Heart Detail

Every charm includes a split ring for easy attachment to Sweetie bracelets, charm holders or necklaces — maintaining the flexibility that made Links charms so beloved.

Production Era

This engraved version is believed to have appeared towards the end of the brand’s trading years — likely the late 2010s. The missing date letter is consistent with the final production runs when Links of London was simplifying its hallmarks before liquidation. While standard flip flop charms appear on the market occasionally, this engraved wording version is far rarer and especially desirable when the tiny heart detail still shows its original plating, however faint.

Vintage Links of London Flip Flop Charm | Footprints in the Sand & Heart Detail

Collecting Footprints Charms

From its symbolism of walking through life with unseen support, to its sweet summer vibe, this charm remains one of the most thoughtful designs in the Links archive. It is often paired with other travel, summer, or milestone charms — or worn alone as a reminder of a meaningful journey.

This version — with engraved wording and the tiny heart — is a quiet example of Links of London’s ability to turn simple everyday objects into keepsakes with deeper meaning.

Discover more rare vintage Links of London charms in The Vault.