Antique Victorian snake ring. 18k yellow gold, little silver, enamel, rose-cut diamonds and rubies. Made circa 1840-60, most probably in England. See note on origin below.
Ring can be worn by a man or a woman - unisex.
Measurements:
Weight is 9.9 grams. A little over a US size 6.
Description :
A truly exceptional snake ring. The head and neck are followed by 11 segments that form the body and tail which come around in a circle to meet and bypass the head. These segments are articulated - each one is individually made and finely joined together to form a single whole. Each segment is very richly enameled in bright royal blue with the bright, high karat gold forming the reptile-skin design. The tail narrows to a point. It is pave-set with 7 diamonds. They are set in silver, which was the custom for diamonds during the 19th century. The neck begins with a raised cylindrical gold ring, followed by a raised ring of pave set diamonds, also in silver with millegrained borders. Also enameled in the wonderful rich blue, the head is set with a number of rose-cut diamonds, both on top and in front, as the nose. The eyes are set with navette-shaped rubies of a fantastic glowing deep red color. Gold mouth is slightly open.
Quality of the workmanship is outstanding.
Marks and Metal:
There are no marks on this ring. We tested the gold with an electronic tester and it came out very high. We will guarantee at least 18k.
Condition:
Good with negligible 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:
Snake rings have been popular for thousands of years. While we may not relish the real creatures in nature, we love snake jewelry. When Prince Albert gave Queen Victoria a snake ring as an engagement present, the trend for snake jewelry exploded. In particular, snake rings (and other jewelry such as bangles and necklaces) were popular from 1840 onwards. Since then, they have never really gone out of fashion. All snake jewelry is sought after, but this ring is a true standout - the quality of the workmanship and materials is superb.
I bought the ring in Paris. The French seller assumed that it was French. However, there are no French assay marks and the French always assay their jewelry. This is hint number 1 that the ring is not French. Even more pointedly, is the use of enamel, which is a particularly English style. When we see jewelry with this fabulous royal blue, lavishly applied, it is invariably English. You decide. This little mystery adds to the fascination of this wonderful ring.
