Antique Victorian 14k Gold Enamel Lapis Locket Ring Memento Mori Skeleton Coffin

I am pleased to offer from my private collection this  

extraordinary and rare Victorian memento mori coffin-shaped poison ring, crafted circa 1872 from solid 14K gold, richly decorated with black enamel and royal blue lapis lazuli. This fascinating piece embodies the late 19th-century fascination with mortality and symbolism of life’s impermanence — a true museum-worthy jewel.

The ring’s coffin-form bezel features fine black enamel engravings depicting a skull and crossbones, hourglass, and grave motifs — traditional emblems of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. The sides of the band are formed as serpents holding orbs, symbolizing eternity and rebirth.

The reversible design is highly unusual and multifunctional:

• When worn with the lapis lazuli face upward, it fits as a men’s size 11.
• When reversed with the skull motif facing upward, it adjusts to a ladies’ size 6.
• It can also be worn as a pendant fob when positioned neutrally — perfect for display on a chain.

Opening the hinged coffin lid reveals a finely detailed skeleton figure inside, once believed to conceal poison or secret messages — a macabre yet fascinating element of Victorian romanticism. Today, it can serve as a tiny pill or keepsake compartment.

The interior is engraved “1872 A.P.”, alongside hallmarks and decorative engravings, confirming its authenticity and period craftsmanship.

This piece weighs an impressive 15.3 grams, emphasizing its quality and solidity — a true statement of 19th-century Gothic artistry.

Features:

• Era: Victorian (circa 1872)
• Metal: Solid 14K Gold
• Gemstone: Lapis Lazuli
• Decoration: Black enamel, engraved skull & crossbones, hourglass, skeleton
• Design: Reversible, adjustable, multifunctional (ring + locket + pendant)
• Weight: 15.3 grams
• Ring sizes: Approx. US 11 (lapis side up) / US 6 (skull side up)
• Hallmarked & inscribed: “1872 A.P.”
• Condition: Excellent antique condition, with light wear consistent with age and use

Historical Context:

During the Victorian era, memento mori (“remember you must die”) jewelry reminded wearers of the inevitability of death — encouraging them to live virtuously. The coffin, skull, and hourglass were potent symbols used in mourning jewelry, reflecting both grief and philosophical reflection on life’s brevity.

This particular ring, with its hidden compartment, also belongs to the mysterious tradition of “poison rings”, used throughout Europe for carrying secret contents — whether sentimental keepsakes, perfume, or, in darker lore, deadly substances.

Pieces of this complexity and symbolism were often custom-commissioned by aristocrats or intellectuals with esoteric or Masonic leanings, making this ring not just jewelry, but a piece of 19th-century cultural history.

Provenance & Authenticity:

Guaranteed authentic Victorian, circa 1872, with clear engraving and hallmarks. Professionally tested for 14K gold.

Shipping & Returns:

• Worldwide shipping with full insurance and tracking
• Securely packed 
• Returns accepted within 60 days

A museum-worthy Victorian masterpiece — blending mystery, mortality, and superb craftsmanship. A true collector’s treasure.

It comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $12,000.00

If you are not satisfied in 100%,your money back guarantee.

Free shipping to worldwide,fully insured(possible byDHL overnight courier)

NOTE:PLEASE OBSERVE CAREFULLY THE PHOTOS! IT IS A SIGNIFICANT PART OF THE DESCRIPTION. Every possible defect which is shown in the photos,but not mention in the description,will be considered for described.All the photos shoot by professional Nikon 105 Macro lens under 40x diopter magnification,so you can explore even the smallest detail like under microscope!