A popular motif in Victorian jewellery, the snake symbolises fidelity, eternity and rebirth. Often occurring in rings, bracelets and pins, even Queen Victoria's engagement ring from Prince Albert featured an emerald-set snake!We believe this beautiful gold and old cut diamond snake ring dates from this very same era.
The front part of the snake is made from rose gold (tests as at least 9ct gold, the ring is not hallmarked) and has three old cut diamonds set into its head, of varying sizes and colours. The body of the snake forms the shank which wraps around the finger and connects to the snake's head at the front, creating what looks like a continuous, eternal circle when worn.
The gold from the ring's shoulder's to the back is made of a slightly yellower gold - we believe the ring has been reshanked at some point in time. This work has been done well and is only noticeable on close inspection.The snake's face also has detailing to highlight its eyes and mouth, giving it a rather sweet expression. The ring works well as a stacking ring, making it an ideal unusual engagement or wedding ring.
The ring weighs approx 2.8g. The front of the ring measures approx 11mm wide from the shank to the tip of the snake's mouth. The shank at the back of the ring measures approx 1.5mm wide.Ring size - US 6 / approx UK L 1/2
Condition - The ring is in good antique condition given its age but does show signs of age and wear. There are marks to the gold, including light surface scratches and a mark to the centre of its head, from wear and age (the right side of the ring’s face has a few of these in the same place under the right eye but these are quite faint).
The diamonds show slight signs of wear under close magnification. There are also some marks to the gold inside of the shank due to age and wear, but these are not visible when worn and the ring looks to have been reshanked at some point in time as mentioned above. Please note that the dark marks that appear in the photos are reflections of our camera in the ring's surface. Please see photos for more detail.*Please note the box pictured is not included in the sale but the ring will be shipped in a new presentation box and pouch*
Antique gold and old cut diamond snake ring
All items are carefully wrapped and packaged in a gift pouch and box. In the UK, we always post items via Royal Mail's Special Delivery service which is fully tracked and insured. For international items, orders up to £300 are sent via Royal Mail's international tracked (and signed for where applicable) service and orders over £300 are sent via DHL Express.