Antique Victorian Poison Skull Occultist Locket Ring Gilt Silver Enamel Nephrite

A remarkable and rare example of Victorian mourning jewelry, this gilt silver poison ring embodies the symbolic elegance of the Memento Mori tradition—reminding the wearer of the inevitability of death and the importance of living a virtuous life. • Material: Gilt silver • Decoration: Set with a border of natural nephrite jade beads, each individually mounted with silver pins • Top: Features a finely enameled skull and crossbones, symbolizing mortality • Functionality: Hidden hinged compartment, often referred to as a poison or locket ring, historically used to hold a keepsake or substance • Design Details: Ornate floral motifs on the shank with exquisite hand-chased detailing • Size: 12; Clearly intended for a gentleman This piece is signed and dated 4.11.1872 inside the locket lid, providing a direct link to its 19th-century origin.

The ring comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $3500 Shipping and Handling: • Item will be securely packaged to ensure safe delivery. • International shipping available by DHL overnight courier. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a rare piece of Victorian history!

History: A poison ring or pillbox ring is a type of ring with a container under the bezel or inside the bezel itself which could be used to hold poison or another substance; they became popular in Europe during the sixteenth century. The poison ring was used either to slip poison into an enemy’s food or drink, or to facilitate the suicide of the wearer in order to preclude capture or torture. In Italy to this day pouring someone a drink whilst holding the bottle with the back of the hand facing downward, so as to let something drop from a ring bezel, is called versare alla traditora (“traitor’s way pouring”) and still considered offensive.  Rings like this have been used throughout history to carry perfume, locks of hair, devotional relics, messages and other keepsakes, so they have also been known by other names. Artists would paint tiny portraits of loved ones, to be carried in what was called a “locket ring,” which was popular during the Renaissance. By the 17th century, jewelers were creating locket rings in the shape of caskets which served as mementos for mourners. These were called “funeral rings.” Rings with compartments are also called “box” rings or “socket” rings.

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NOTE:PLEASE OBSERVE CAREFULLY THE PHOTOS! IT IS A SIGNIFICANT PART OF THE DESCRIPTION. Every potencial 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!