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Memento Mori: what is Hair and memorial Jewellery

To some it may seem rather dark and macabre, but I’ve always been fascinated by mourning and ‘memento Mori’ jewellery. I remember reading about queen Victoria’s decades long mourning of prince Albert and the consequent fashion for all things black and death! But what exactly is it and why was it popular?

17th Century Gold Memento Mori Signet Ring, Source – British Museum

Memento Mori Jewellery: A Reminder of Mortality

The phrase “memento mori” translates to “remember you must die” in Latin. Memento mori jewellery emerged during the 16th century and was meant to serve as a symbol of the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. Often enameled and engraved, skulls, skeletons and coffins were common motifs. Some pieces were set with gemstones and adorned with phrases and words in Latin, French or English. At first glance it may seem a morbid idea but in reality it acted as a reminder to live life to the fullest. Life back then was uncertain and often difficult, so memento mori jewellery was like the original YOLO!

A gold memento mori coffin pendant complete with with skeleton Source – Wellcome Library, London

Memorial Jewellery: Keeping Memories Alive

Memorial jewellery, on the other hand, focused more on preserving memories of loved ones than conveying a message. These pieces would often feature engravings or inscriptions that honored the deceased. Some even contained hidden compartments to hold tiny keepsakes or paintings.

Hair Jewellery: carry them with you always.

One of the most intriguing forms of memorial jewellery is hair jewellery. Yes, you read that right! People would collect strands of hair from loved ones and incorporate them in to intricate jewellery designs. Locks of hair were woven and braided into rings, brooches, necklaces or even used to create miniature portraits. Often the hair came from deceased loved ones, although not always, It allowed you to carry a little piece of your beloved with you wherever you went. In the last few years hair jewellery has come back in to fashion, although mostly now as a way to commemorate a much loved pet. I’ve made several pieces myself, below is a piece I made by weaving horse tail hair and adding hand making sterling silver fittings to turn it in to a pendant.

I hope this helps you to appreciate the rich history and the heartfelt sentiments this particular type of jewellery carries. It’s a beautiful reminder that life is precious and an usual but touching way to memorialise your loved ones.