SKU: 83176466333

Early Victorian Ouroboros Intaglio Mourning Ring ; Circa 1840

Sale price$705.58 Regular price$783.98
Save 10%

Shipping Estimate
USA
  • USA
  • CAN

Ships within 48 hours · Estimated delivery Jul 14 - Jul 19

Promo Codes Available:

For Your Every Summer RSVP, with Code: SUMMER15

Description

Early Victorian Ouroboros Intaglio Mourning Ring ; Circa 1840This exceptional and rare mourning ring is a masterclass in the emotional language of 19th century sentimental jewellery. Designed with remarkable care and layered symbolism, it stands apart as an object of both profound sentiment and extraordinary craftsmanship. At first glance, the ring presents as a classic signet style panel ring, set with a beautifully banded agate. Amazingly we have finely engraved upon the agate a delicate butterfly encircled

This exceptional and rare mourning ring is a masterclass in the emotional language of 19th century sentimental jewellery. Designed with remarkable care and layered symbolism, it stands apart as an object of both profound sentiment and extraordinary craftsmanship.

At first glance, the ring presents as a classic signet style panel ring, set with a beautifully banded agate. Amazingly we have finely engraved upon the agate a delicate butterfly encircled by an ouroboros: the ancient symbol of a serpent consuming its own tail, representing the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The butterfly, too, carries deep Victorian symbolism. The butterfly was a motif of the soul, transformation, and resurrection. Together, these images form a poignant memento mori.  A reminder of life’s fragility and the soul’s endurance beyond the grave.

The shoulders are richly detailed with engraved floral motifs picked out in (no faded) black enamel, a hallmark of mourning jewellery from the Georgian and Victorian eras. Black enamel was used to signify mourning for an adult, while white enamel indicated the loss of a child. 

Beneath the agate lies a hidden hinged compartment. A secret panel that lifts to reveal a glazed locket containing the original woven hair of the departed. Hairwork was an especially intimate and cherished element of mourning jewellery, allowing the wearer to keep a physical part of their loved one close. The use of hair within rings like this was not only sentimental, but also served as a tangible link between the living and the dead.

This is a wonderful and very special empale of Victorian sentimental jewellery. 


DETAILS

ERA: Likely late Georgian to early Victorian (c. 1830–1850)


MATERIAL/HALLMARK: Minimum 9 carat gold

MEASUREMENTS :

FINGER SIZE: P 1/2 (UK/AU) 8 (US)

Weight: 3.6 gram approximately 

Condition: There is an overall patina of wear on the  enamel, agate and gold. There is enamel loss on the shoulders. 

The antique ring box is for display only


-Please feel free to take a look at all photographs for condition before committing to buy. We do not offer refunds so if in doubt drop us and email and wed be happy to help!

-We ship worldwide on all orders & parcels are sent fully insured and well packed in our signature pink boxes

-We accept all methods of payment, and orders will be shipped out within 1-3 business days.

-All customs information is declared and we are not responsible for any import duties or delays incurred.

> All of the jewels we work with are antique or vintage and as such they are sold ‘as seen. This means theyre not perfect. They carry the love and journey of generations who love them before. These jewels should be worn with extra and love and care.

Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 83176466333

Discover Niche Categories That Outsell

Top-Converting Item to Boost Your Average Order

4.1 ★★★★★
Based on 2239 reviews
Sort
Highest Rating
Newest First
Oldest First
Product Reviews
B
Verified Purchase
B
Houston, US
★★★★★ 4
Nice but stains show
Color: 01 - Grey, Size: Standard (20" X 26")
These are comfortable and love the zipper. That’s why I bought them. I don’t know if I try chewing my pillowcases in my sleep but I got sick of waking up with it half way out. Only complaint is that my oily skin shows pretty well on it. Only time will tell if zipper holds up. I like so far and am keeping these
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2025
T
Verified Purchase
Turtle
Charlottesville, US
★★★★★ 5
Fabulous set
Color: 09 - Light Blue, Size: Standard (20" X 26")
These are silky soft. No sweat and sleep is a dream on these. I have bought two sets now and friends have bought them to and just love them. Great quality and price! Wash and dry perfectly! Great on your skin and hair!
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 20, 2026
O
Verified Purchase
Oakley
Birmingham, US
★★★★★ 5
Quality material; zips up the pillow with no problems
Color: 07 - Green, Size: Standard (20" X 26")
I love the material! It fits my Mellow Pillow just right.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 28, 2026
C
Verified Purchase
C E D
Lowell, US
★★★★★ 5
Good quality
Color: 08 - Beige, Size: Standard (20" X 26")
They look great, feel great, great quality, and fair price. Totally satisfied
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 25, 2026
J
Verified Purchase
Jalysa j
Cuba, US
★★★★★ 5
Cooling and comfortable
Color: 07 - Green, Size: Standard (20" X 26")
Cooling and comfortable. I love the zipper case which helps my pillow from going flat. Will purchase again
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 31, 2026

recommand products