It Looks Like Jewelry, but That Is Not What It Does
July 28, 2026
Source: Amazon
What does this shiny Gold item do?
At First Glance:
This shiny gold item appears to be a piece of costume jewelry. The dark center resembles a polished stone and the curved metal sections are folded neatly about it. However, upon opening it reveals its true function.
Its Function:
It is a folding purse hook (table use).
Upon closing, the circular ornate portion sits flat against the table’s edge with the long gold arm hanging down. Then simply slide the purse or handbag strap over the curved hook. It will hold the purse securely near by, yet safely out of reach of the ground.
A Practical Answer To A Common Restaurant Problem:
Prior to the advent of portable purse hooks; most people were confronted with a common dilemma. They had three choices as to where they would put their handbag during a restaurant visit.
They could set it on the floor, place it on their lap, or hang it over the back of a chair.
Each option has its own drawbacks.
Floors can be dirty; chairs have no protection for purses; and purses on laps make for poor dining experiences.
The folding purse hook provided a convenient answer to all of these problems. It fits into the purse and opens in seconds anytime it is required.
In addition to being convenient, the purse hook provides some stability. Most purse hooks have a weighted design on the upper surface which prevents them from falling over. Many have rubber bases so that they won’t slip.
How Does it Open And Close?
The opening and closing motion allows the hook to open and close onto the central disc, creating a small rounded configuration when closed and occupying a minimal amount of space within a purse.
Additionally, some examples provide a slight degree of rotation to help adjust to various table edges and handbag configurations.
The black center on this example gives it the appearance of a brooch or compact mirror. The gold color provides the aesthetic of an accessory rather than functional tool. This was one of its appeals. Purse hooks often came in decorative finishes such as floral patterns, gemstone encrustations, or engravings.
Still Useful Today:
Although the original folding purse hook may appear to be a simple device, it serves a useful purpose in protecting handbags from dirty tables and floors. Additionally, it holds handbags at a reasonable distance from patrons and frees up valuable space under chair backs.
Similar handbag hangers are still readily available today. These range from coordinating sets to modern designs and even custom decorated pieces.