Description

In the Victorian era when this ring was made, snakes were seen to symbolize wisdom and eternal life, and, when given as a sign of commitment, eternal love: they shed their skins and were reborn, and that's the meaning that Albert employed when he presented an engagement ring in the shape of a snake to the young Queen Victoria. Their popularity as symbols of undying love persisted throughout her reign, when this piece was created.

Made of a richly hued rose gold, this ring measures a size 7 (though, the heads not being soldered together, it is adjustable). It is hallmarked on the outside of the shank, where the country assay of Sweden and the letter "V," but alas, the other hallmarks have been worn into illegibility. It tests higher than 18K but lower than 22K: since one of the marks on the shank looks an awful lot like a "9" to me, I'd wager it's 19K. One head features a rose-cut diamond, and the other a rose-cut ruby: both have cunningly carved little faces, with charmingly knowing expressions.

This piece has a lot of sentimental value, but since it falls into that category of just never making it out of the jewelry box, hopefully somebody out there will give it a good home. It would make a wonderful engagement ring or wedding band, given the symbolism. Hard to resist the temptation, in the Year of the Snake!