Victorian Blue Enamel Snake Bracelet

A Victorian era bracelet, modeled in 18k yellow gold, whose figural, snake's head clasp and scale link body entwine the wearer's wrist like a promise. Our beautiful serpent's head is decorated with royal blue enamel. She has ruby cabochon eyes, a pearl-set nose, and a mouth full of sharp, gold teeth! She is crowned with three plumes— each set with a graduating series of chubby, luminous, natural sea pearls— and a heart-shaped locket drops from her mouth. This locket is also decorated with enamel and pearls, and the feathers, here, give the heart a winged, insect-like character. The small, glass-back locket, and the coiling end of the snake's tail are engraved with feathery baroque decor. This bracelet is a show-stopper and it is exceptionally comfortable in wear! 

For the Victorians, the snake biting its tail was a symbol of eternal love. 

Materials

18k gold
Pearl
Ruby
Enamel

Age

c. 1850

Dimensions

Wearable length is approx 7.5"; snake head and dangling heart measure approx 2 1/8 x 7/8", together; pearls (33) graduate in size: the largest pearl measuring approx 4 x 3.3 mm and the smallest pearl measures approx 1.3 x 1 mm; 2 1/8 x 7/8"; ruby cabochons (2) measure approx 2 mm; weight is 23.7 grams.

Notes

The heart locket has significant enamel loss on one side— this loss is not glaring, thanks to the gold areas of engraved decor that frame the enameled sections. Any other losses are very minor, and not noticeable. Enamel restoration has not been attempted and is not advised. Condition is otherwise excellent.