A substantial Victorian snake ring dated precisely to 1898, crafted in 18ct gold and formed as a broad coiled serpent wrapping around the finger. The head is particularly well defined, with a softly modelled head, raised eye detail and an old mine cut diamond set prominently to the centre.
The diamond measures 2.9mm across and is estimated at 0.08ct. It has good colour and clarity for an antique stone, with no visible carbon inclusions, chips or cracks. Its old cut facets give it the softer, lively flash associated with hand-cut Victorian diamonds.
At 10.15 grams, this is a notably heavy Victorian example with real presence on the hand. Snake jewellery was strongly associated with eternal love and devotion during the Victorian period, making this an especially characteristic design of the era.
Presented in very good antique condition with age-related wear consistent with its age. The old mine cut diamond remains securely set and shows good colour and clarity, with no visible carbon inclusions, chips or cracks.
Era:
Victorian, 1898
Hallmarks:
Birmingham assay office, 18ct gold with date letter 'y' for the year 1898.
Dimensions:
Ring size: UK V / US 10.5
Front width: 16.5mm
Width at reverse: 10mm
Diamond weight: 0.08ct
