The snake is one of the oldest motifs in jewelry history - from the ancient Egytian ouroboros to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's 1839 engagement, the snake was used to represent life and death, rebirth, passion, and power. Victoria and Albert's choice of an emerald-set snake as an engagement ring set off a widespread surge in popularity that lasted through her reign, finding this beautifully modelled version circa 1904.

The sinewy body of the serpent has provided jewelry designers with great freedom of expression; iterations range from loose interpretations in form to hyperrealistic reptilia. This particular little cutie features a broad, coiling body, a smooth skin, ruby eyes and a sparkling old European cut diamond at the crest of his little noggin.

Details:
• 18k yellow gold, stamped and tested, with partial British hallmarks for London 1904 (maker's mark lost)
• Size 6, can be resized within two sizes by your skilled jeweler 
• Two round rubies approximately 0.04 carat total weight and one old European cut diamond approximately 0.08 carat
• Face of ring measures 9.3mm wide, with a rise of 3.3mm; back of band measures 4.5mm wide and 0.7mm thick
• 3.9g