An Alexander McQueen Very Long Silvered Memento Mori Skull Necklace

An outstanding Alexander McQueen very long curb chain necklace in a striking asymmetrical design combining rich gold and silver tones. The central feature is a large Memento Mori skull pendant in yellow gold, designed to slide freely along the gold chain between two smaller fixed skulls positioned on either side. These side skulls continue the asymmetrical concept, one finished in gold and the other in silver, while the chains change from gold to silver at these points, creating a dynamic visual contrast. Multiple loop connections are incorporated throughout the design, including within the chain, at the end of the chain and beside each smaller skull. These allow the necklace to be worn in a variety of configurations, adjusting the overall length or creating layered effects with loops falling at the back of the neck. Experimentation reveals several styling possibilities. The clasp assembly continues the mixed-metal theme, with a gold lobster claw clasp attached to a gold chain, while the opposing connection chain and loop are finished in silver and terminate with a silver Tree of Life tab. The Tree of Life is one of Alexander McQueen’s distinctive hallmarks, with his initials subtly woven into the branches. The second hallmark appears beneath the jaw of the large skull pendant bearing his full name. While the Tree of Life appears on several pieces, the Memento Mori skull remains the designer’s most recognisable symbolic motif. The necklace retains its original padded interior presentation box together with the named beige linen pouch with red drawstring, both in pristine condition. The piece itself presents as new with no damage or losses and displays exceptional detail throughout. The skull motif references the Latin phrase Memento Mori — a reminder to live fully in the present, acknowledging the fleeting nature of life. Alexander McQueen’s jewellery has become highly collectible worldwide, celebrated for its bold symbolism and distinctive design language. Dimensions approx.: maximum single strand length 110cm; large skull 1.3cm wide x 1.8cm high x 1.3cm deep; small skulls each 0.6cm wide x 0.8cm high x 0.7cm deep; chains 0.2cm wide; total mass 29.1gm. Alexander McQueen, London. England.