19th Century Turquoise Snake Pin
19th century Persian turquoise snake pin. Pavé set cabochon turquoise scales and rubies for eyes set in silver on 9k gold. Can be worn as an accessory or displayed on the wall as a decorative piece. English in origin. Circa 1870.
Measures 3.25" in length.
Ladies of the European nobility wore snakes as brooches, bracelets, necklaces and finger rings. By the beginning of the 19th century long snake collars were being worn. Queen Victoria was given a snake ring by her fiance Albert to mark their engagement.
The serpent wound its way through the 19th century jewelry as an amulet, a talisman, as a good luck charm and symbol of enduring love.