Santavanitas Memento Mori 18kt Gold-plated Ring

Santavanitas, from Spanish designer Pilar Cano Romero, is an intensely story-driven labor of love, with each piece uniquely representing and commentating on a keen observation of our lives and humanity.

Some centuries ago, however, amazing objects and jewels were created to remind ourselves of our own mortality, that our presence on Earth is only transitory.
These decorative items, mostly rings, are called Memento Mori, which in Latin means ‘Remember that you will die’.

Although the Memento Mori jewellery existed since Antiquity, the greatest part of the oldest preserved samples are from the 15th century. Their popularity lasted for more than 300 years and it was customary to wear different types of Memento Mori until the start of the 20th century.

The rotating feature of the ring-seal enables the piece to be worn with the message hidden. Often this type of jewellery was used as a most intimate reminder: only the wearer knows its true meaning.

Mixing past and future, every piece is designed from the latest 3D techniques and crafted by local artisans through the old process of lost wax casting. The process is slow and the productions are small, but always responsible, sustainable and human. Pilar wanted to create a brand that is rooted in a purpose beyond aesthetics, contemporary heirlooms that make the wearer feel empowered, protected, stronger. Masculine and feminine, both are always present in Pilar’s personal aesthetics, for her there are no divisions.

- Handcrafted in Cordoba, Spain
- 18Kt gold-plated 925 silver
- Swivel signet measures 13mm
- Size 6 has a diameter of 15.5mm / Size 7 - 16.5mm