(via The Hairpin)

Circa 1700, this high-karat gold skeletal band ring is an example of “Memento Mori” jewelry, which dates to the 16th through the 18th centuries. It was intended to remind the wearer of his or her mortality (memento mori translates to “remember you must die”), and of the fleeting nature of time.

Skeletons, skulls, and coffins often figure into the designs, and here a full skeleton circles the ring. Other symbols of mortality and immortality are depicted, including a death’s-head skull, an hourglass (tempus fugit), and a flower. The interior is engraved with a posy motto: “I am gone follow after” and the initials AWI.