Antique: Snake Ring in 18ct gold, Double Snake with Diamonds

We are always on the lookout for the quintessential antique snake ring. One that's in good condition without previous repair, 18ct gold, and with complete hallmarks. The diamonds are very bright and white and really pop against the rich color of the antique yellow gold. 

This diamond snake ring is from the Edwardian period, fully hallmarked for 18ct, Birmingham, 1904.

Antique Snake Jewelry & Symbolism

The serpent has been a symbol of both love and eternal wisdom throughout the ages. A meaningful symbol in the Victorian Era, Queen Victoria herself started the trend of snake rings as an engagement ring. Two pivotal points in her life were marked with snake jewelry: her engagement (coiled snake ring with an emerald) and her first Council Meeting as Queen (snake bracelet to symbolize wisdom). 

The snake also symbolizes eternity/eternal love when the snake (usually with its tail in its mouth) completes a circle. This is the case with this gold snake ring as each playfully grabs a tail in its mouth. Also considered a Toi et Moi ring, it makes a very unique engagement ring or wedding band. 

• Ring size: US 6 1/2 or UK M 1/2. 
• Height: The height at the widest point at the front of the ring measures a 9.7 mm or a little over 1/3 inch.
• Diamonds: The diamond are transitional cut, approximately 2.7 and 2.3 mm in diameter, with some inclusions. The diamonds are bright and lively with a color in the range of G/H (an estimate as the diamonds are evaluated in their setting).
• Gold: Hand fabricated in 18ct gold.

• England.

• Edwardian.
• Hallmarks for 18ct, Birmingham, 1904.

• The ring is in good condition for its age. There are very small surface scratches  of the ring that you would expect to see on a ring of this age. All are difficult to see without magnification, i.e. the eye alone. There are no chips to the diamonds.

If you are interested in reading more about the jewelry terms or decorative periods referenced throughout the site, visit our Resources section for additional information.

Find out how to care for your collection of antique and modern jewels: visit our Jewelry Care page to get advice on maintaining and storing your treasured pieces.

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