1888 Victorian Snake Ring with Diamond

A large and heavy Victorian serpent ring, styled in a wide-band design with the snake body coiling around three and half revolutions. The serpent’s round, amiable head is set with two tiny rose cut diamond eyes and a central 4.25 mm old mine cut diamond. The inside shank is fully hallmarked for solid 15k yellow gold, the Birmingham assay office, and the year 1888. The execution and workmanship are elegant and almost minimalistic, allowing the diamond and sinuous curves to shine. The large ring size and heft (7.4 grams!) suggest this was once a gentleman’s ring; serpent rings, made popular in the 19th century by a resurgent interest in the ouroboros symbol from antiquity, were worn by Victorians of both genders to represent everlasting love.

Due to a flaw in the diamond (a 1 x 0.5 mm chip to edge), I’ve priced this ring modestly, without factoring the value of the diamond itself. The chip isn’t noticeable when the ring is worn, and the stone itself is firmly set. If you do not mind a flawed antique diamond, this is a great opportunity to own a classic Victorian snake ring at an affordable price.