The snake is one of the oldest motifs in jewelry history - from the ancient Egytian ouroboros to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's 1839 engagement, the snake was used to represent life and death, rebirth, passion, protection, and power. Victoria and Albert's choice of an emerald-set snake as an engagement ring set off a widespread surge in popularity that lasted through her reign, leaving us with a trove of golden ophidia hailing from the second half of the 19th century. The sinewy body of the serpent has provided jewelry designers with great freedom of expression; iterations range from loose interpretations in form to hyperrealistic reptilia. 

Very good antique condition, c1885. Originally manufactured in the UK.

Details:
• 18k yellow gold, stamped and tested, with British hallmarks for London 1885, maker’s mark lost
• Size 7 and do not recommend resizing due to thinning of band
• Four early rose cut diamonds approximately 1mm diameter each
• Face of ring measures 11.4mm wide, 13.7mm across, and a rise of 3.6mm; back of band measures 6.7mm wide and 0.4mm thick
• 6.9g