A superb Victorian French 18ct snake pendant encrusted with rubies and old cut diamonds. The snake’s head is set with rubies and he has diamonds running down either side of his body into his coils. He is beautifully crafted with ruby eyes and the outline of snakeskin engraved in the gold as he starts to coil.

The pendant dates from circa 1860. Snake jewellery was very popular in the Victorian period. Queen Victoria & Prince Albert were largely responsible for this. Queen Victoria had a number of snake pieces in her collection including her engagement ring from the prince. Snakes symbolise love, rebirth and immortality.

The pendant was originally a brooch which was stamped with the French eagle’s head for 18ct gold on the ‘C’ clasp. The pin and C clasp have been removed. (They will be included with the snake pendant when it is despatched to its new owner. ) The prong on the back of the snake has been closed to make a loop so it can be worn securely as a pendant.

The snake measures 35mm x 29mm and weighs 9.2g.

The snake is set with 15 old cut diamonds with an estimated carat weight of 0.3 carats. The six rubies are a beautiful deep pink colour and are well matched. The largest ruby on the top of the snake’s head is collet set and measures 5mm x 4.5mm.

Please look at the photographs as they form part of the description. Please note that this is an antique piece of jewellery as such shows some signs of wear.

The other pieces of jewellery are not included.

Shipping using the Royal Mail insured, tracked and signed for service with insurance up to £250 is included in the price, if it is available to your location. Shipping by DHL Express with full insurance and more rapid delivery can be selected at checkout for a flat rate of GBP£40.

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Customs fees and taxes, including overseas VAT, are the responsibility of the buyer. Taxes can be particularly onerous and vary hugely between destinations. (VAT rates on antique imports into EU countries can be as high as 27% of the purchase price.)

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