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Hair Mourning Ring
Sentimental Hairwork Ring
Hair Mourning Ring
Hair Mourning Ring

Sentimental Hairwork Ring

DateProbably 19th century
Object NameRing
Mediumgold metal, hair
ClassificationsJewellery
Dimensions2cm D
AcquisitionPresented in 1985 by Miss Mary Hay.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS006995
About MeThis plain, circular gold mourning ring is set with a broad band of plaited human hair and engraved with the initials M.M.C. The hair is thought to belong to the mother of the donor.

The notion of keeping a physical memento of a person, dead or alive, is thousands of years old. Using a lock of hair in a remembrance piece has been popular for many centuries. However, pieces of jewellery containing intricate patterns made from hair began to appear during the 17th century.

The craft of hairwork jewellery really took off in the 19th century as the fashion for sentimental jewellery grew.

It is likely that this ring was worn as a gesture of love. It is possibly either a betrothal or wedding ring made to include the hair of the wearers loved one.