Seductive, Sentimental.

The Victorians were mad for sentimental jewelry. In particular, snake jewelry became immensely fashionable after Prince Albert presented Queen Victoria with an engagement ring in the form of a snake, a symbol of eternal love.

This snake is modeled with gold scales, its body forming a sinuous, slightly tapered chain. The sculpted head is engraved with foliate details and set with turquoise cabochons and garnets for eyes. We love the minutiae, like the teeth, the tail looped around the head, and the pert “nose” set with a turquoise. Remove the glass panel to the locket to insert a personal memento, if desired.

This very fine example of the Victorian snake necklace, circa 1840-60, is a collector’s piece, but also supremely wearable. A similar example (same design, different gemstones) can be seen in the reference, “The Necklace,” by Daniela Mascetti and Amanda Triossi, at page 110.

Unmarked.

18k gold, turquoise, garnet.

Dimensions and weight:

●       15.75 inches/cm long (wearable length)

●       19 mm wide at widest point (the looped tail)/chain tapers slightly and is approximately 5.9 mm at widest point.

●       28.5 grams

Period: Victorian

*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present.