Victorian Coiled Snake Ring
Victorian snake ring dating from the mid 19th century, circa 1860. The serpent coils around the finger three times before turning his head to rest over his body. He's crafted in 15 carat gold with a silly, part-open mouth, turquoise 'brain', cross-hatched scales, and engraved facial details.
The snake is one of the oldest and most widely used mythological symbols, featuring prominently in virtually every culture we know of stretching far back into prehistory. The anthropologist Lynne Isbell has argues that the snake as a manifestation of death is, because of our evolutionary history as primates, literally built into our subconscious. As well as being a symbol of medicine (rod of Asclepius) and the devil (Christian traditions), the snake is most commonly seen to represent fertility and rebirth, transformation and immortality, and as potent guardians of temples and other sacred spaces. Obviously the Victorians loved them too, indeed queen Victoria herself famously received an emerald snake ring from her beloved Albert.
Era: Victorian, circa 1860
Ring size: K 1/2 or 5.5 US. Resizeable for £60.
Width at head: 13.2mm
Stone: Turquoise
Marks: None, tested as 15ct gold
Condition: Good antique condition, wear consistent with age including some light abrasion to the stone
Full appraisal document provided with each item
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£35 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
Leave a note at checkout with your desired size
Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
More Questions?
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alex@lostowl.jewelry
An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
Add a note in the cart* with your desired size and/or inscription
*shopping cart, not the checkout