The Poison Ring Intrigue
I wanted to discuss the history of Poison rings and how they are synonymous with mystery, death and intrigue. Poison rings are also known as locket, vessel or pillbox rings. Poison ring's history started in Asia, then later made its way to Europe. The poison ring replaced the practice of wearing keepsakes and other items around the neck. The original poison ring had a small compartment hidden with a hinged cover, like the handcrafted sterling silver ones we have in our shop.
Poison rings during the Middle Ages were used to hold deadly contents or relics, like pieces of saint's hair, bone or teeth, which were thought to protect the wearer from various disasters or diseases. Aristocrats from the Renaissance era would wear poison rings holding locks of hair, loved one's portraits or cologne. There are stories of powerful family feuds from the Middle Ages being ended by the use of poison rings. Lucrezia Borgia (1480-1519), the only daughter of Pope Alexander VI, and Italian noblewoman, had a reputation for taking care of political adversaries with the use of her notorious poison rings. In 2013, an archaeological discovery of a potential murder weapon, a bronze poison ring, was discovered in Bulgaria dating back more than 600 years ago. It was believed to have been imported from Spain or Italy, and was exquisitely crafted and intentionally hollowed out in order to conceal poison. Believing to have been worn on a man's right pinky finger, the poison could easily been poured into a glass stealthily with a flick of his finger.
The Poison Rings of the past were bold and mystical. Today, Poison Rings come in peace, are still part of fashion and fun to wear, but continue to peak interest and mystery. Jade Bear Gems has a variety of poison rings for sale and carry Sterling Silver Poison Rings with different gemstones and each have a small compartment where you're able to carry a small pill, ashes or a keepsake.
Please check out Jade Bear Gems uniquely handcrafted sterling silver and gemstone jewelry. We are always adding new jewelry to our inventory so please visit us at Jade Bear Gems often. Don't forget to sign up for our VIP list and receive 15% off your first order with us!