ow. fern boy

Skull Rings

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Circa 1700, this high-karat gold skeletal band ring is an example of “Memento Mori” jewelry, which dates back to the 16th through the 18th centuries. It was intended to remind the wearer of his or her mortality (memento mori translates to “remember you must die”), and of the fleeting nature of time. The interior of this particular ring is engraved with the phrase “I am gone follow after” and the initials AWI.

A Victorian “poison ring” of 18k gold, with a central casket flanked by two ram’s heads (an occult symbol). The casket, which is enamelled in green and set with a large emerald, opens to reveal a sizeable inner chamber that would easily meet all your poison-storage needs.

Gold ring with diamonds and sapphire, Germany, c. 1975.

Urn Theme in Victorian Jewelry

Many of the pieces above depict urns, a common symbol of mortality in Victorian mourning jewelry. We also see several pieces with black enamel, which also represents mortality and death. White enamel was often used when remembering the death of a child or unmarried woman. Wheat sheaves, shown in pins in the bottom cluster, was a common symbol of prosperity and bounty. In fact, early bridal bouquets often included wheat for that very reason!