Antique Victorian Brooch snakes 18k gold silver emeralds rubies diamonds(7307)

Antique late Victorian double snake brooch. 18k gold, some silver, emeralds, rubies and diamonds. Made in France, circa 1890's.
Unisex - can be worn by a man or a woman.

Measurements: Weight is 7.3 grams. Approximately 1 5/8 inches (a little over 4cm) long.

Description : Intertwining pair of snakes. One snake with a gold body, engraved with a lattice pattern in immitation of a scaly texture. The 2nd snake, with silver over the gold, pave set with glinting diamonds. The heads form the terminals at the sides. Each head is set with gemstones in the center and eyes of the opposite gem: one head set with an emerald has ruby eyes; the other has a ruby center with emerald eyes. Central gems are of a lovely quality.
A sturdy hinged pin and 'C' clasp at the back. For addition security, there is a gold chain connected to a small gold safety pin.
Very well made with intriguing design that will make a great accessory for a man or a woman.

Marks and Metal: French owl mark for 18k gold on 'c' of clasp and on the pin. There is a partial gold hallmark on the safety pin. Gold and silver were also electronically tested to ensure metal purity.

Condition: Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.

THE STORY: Ever since ancient Egyptian and Roman times, the snake has been a popular symbol in jewelry. Symbolic of everlasting life, love and renewal, amongst various other harbingers of good fortune, it is the antithesis of how we see these reptiles in 'real life'. Their sinuous form is extremely attractive with its sense of movement and elegance.
This particular brooch, was made in Paris during a period where the French, who excelled above all others in the jewelry field, were creating their best designs. The original owner was a fashion conscious lady or man, who knew that this fascinating reptile would be a magnet for conversation, while not being gauche or obtrusive. Your friends will notice and admire. They might ask about the snake theme and you can tell them. The brooch was loved and cared for while it was enjoyed by many generations - picture a Victorian, an Edwardian, someone getting through WWI and then the Art Deco era. All those that followed... Each generation perhaps using the brooch in a slightly different way. Each with a bow to those who came before. We are the current link in a chain of owners who will hopefully extend for many more hundreds of years. Will it be your great great grandchildren or those of a stranger? This is one of the mysteries of eternal jewelry.