A Victorian gold and turquoise serpent necklace

About the Item

A Victorian gold and turquoise serpent necklace, the flexible tapering yellow gold body formed of three rows of scale-like collets each set with a round cabochon-cut turquoise, the head encrusted with cabochon-cut turquoises of various shapes, the brows set with rose-cut diamonds and the eyes with cabochon-cut garnes, all mounted in yellow gold, circa 1850, measuring approximately 41 x 1.2cm, gross weight 47.3 grams, a similar example is illustrated in Understanding Jewellery, by David Bennett and Daniela Mascetti, plate 108. This antique necklace is in very goo condition with signs of wear consistent with the age of the piece. Unmarked, tested as 18ct gold with 15ct gold snap. This exceptional Victorian serpent necklace comes from the collection of Bentley & Skinner, Jewellers by Royal Appointment to His Majesty King Charles III. Serpent motifs in jewellery became popular in the early Victorian era after Prince Albert gave Queen Victoria a serpent ring for their engagement, and the image of the serpent came to symbolise fidelity and everlasting love. The interest in serpent motifs also coincided with new archaeological discoveries from Ancient Egypt, and many examples of ancient serpent jewellery were found. This necklace features flexible links of golden scales set with cabochon-cut turquoises that taper in size to form the remarkably lifelike body of the serpent. The head of the serpent features glowing ruby eyes and facial details studded with glittering diamonds. The clasp of the necklace is in the snake’s open mouth, which has the added detail of realistic teeth. To the Ancient Egyptians, the motif of a snake eating its own tale (the ouroboros) symbolized the cyclical nature of life, and when closed, this necklace forms a perfect ouroboros symbol.

Metal:
Gold
Stone:
Turquoise
Stone Cut:
Cabochon
Weight:
47.3 g
Dimensions:
Width: 0.48 in (12 mm)Length: 16.15 in (410 mm)
Style:
Early Victorian
Place of Origin:
United Kingdom
Period:
1840-1849
Date of Manufacture:
1840
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
Seller: 33369m1stDibs: LU57619678552