DATE: Victorian, c.1900 

This exquisite antique double snake ring is crafted in luxurious 18k buttery gold. Each snake is adorned with a gemstone "brain"—one with a ruby, the other with a sapphire—symbolizing passion and wisdom. Their eyes are set with sparkling diamonds, adding an extra touch of elegance. The ring wraps around the finger three times, with each snake's tail gracefully ending at the shoulders. Rich in symbolism, the intertwined snakes represent eternal love and unity.
Snake rings have a rich history and profound symbolism that spans various cultures and eras. In ancient Egypt, snakes, particularly cobras, were revered and associated with sovereignty, royalty, and divine authority, often worn as protective amulets. In ancient Greece and Rome, snake rings symbolized healing, renewal, and eternal love. The Greeks linked snakes with Asclepius, the god of medicine, while Romans gave snake rings as tokens of everlasting commitment. One of the most famous examples is the snake engagement ring given to Queen Victoria by Prince Albert, which popularized the motif during the Victorian era as a symbol of eternal love and fidelity.
The symbolism of snake rings is equally rich and varied. Snakes also symbolize transformation and renewal, shedding their skin to signify personal growth and new beginnings. They are seen as protectors and guardians in many cultures, believed to ward off evil and provide healing, as exemplified by the Rod of Asclepius in medical symbolism. Additionally, snakes embody duality and balance, representing the interconnectedness of opposing forces such as good and evil, life and death, and wisdom and cunning.

STONES 

Sapphire

Ruby 

Old Cut Diamonds 

MEASUREMENTS 

Width of band: 7.3mm

Rise off finger: 3.8mm

Width at head: 1.3cm

WEIGHT 

 12.2g

MARKS 

Stamped 18k

CONDITION 

 Very good