DATE: Victorian, c.1860

A gorgeous antique serpent brooch in 15 karat gold. It dates from the mid Victorian period, circa 1860, with a graduated row of turquoise cabochons and a cartoonish head/face. The body coils around itself, formed into quatrefoil, and ends with the tail being eaten by the mouth - an unusual take on the classic Ouroboros theme. Oh, and there's a tiny secret locket compartment to the back.

For as long as history records, snakes have been revered, feared, and adored. To the ancients, they symbolised rebirth, transformation, immortality, and healing - as well as eternity and renewal of life. They've been associated with both poison and medicine, guardianship, and vengeance/vindictiveness. Whatever snakes mean to you, this one is a particularly cool and striking example.

STONES 

Turquoise 

MEASUREMENTS 

3.3 x 2.5cm

WEIGHT 

3.5g

MARKS 

No marks present, tests as 15k gold

CONDITION 

Very good