Victorian Serpent Puzzle Ring
Cool antique puzzle ring with a snake at the head, surrounded by various fan or foliate embellishments. The ring comprises four bands that slot together in one specific way - the puzzle being figuring out exactly which way - with each band featuring a different element of the completed head. It's crafted in silver, and dates from the late Victorian period, circa 1900. It's previous owner has, wisely, tied thread around the bands to stop them coming apart...
The origins of this type of puzzle ring are uncertain... most likely they are an elaboration on the gimmel ring, fashionable in England during the 16th and 17th centuries, although they're also popularly known as Turkish wedding rings (or Harem rings). The story goes that such rings were given as wedding bands in ancient Persia, because if they were removed (to allow the wearer to commit adultery) the bands would fall apart, unable to be reassembled before it was missed by the spouse.
Era: Victorian, circa 1900
Head size: 15.0mm by 12.5mm
Ring size: O or 7.25 US. Not resizable
Marks: Stamped 925 (sterling silver)
Condition: Great antique condition with excellent patina
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)
Buying a Gift?
Leave a note at checkout and we'll include a handwritten note to the recipient. Just tell us what you'd like to say
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?
Get in touch... There's a live chat at the bottom right of each page.
alex@lostowl.jewelry