An unusual vintage French 18K gold double-headed snake ring. The design takes after museum examples of ancient Roman snake rings. Snake rings and bracelets were very popular in antiquity, and were worn for protection against evil or to ensure fertility. Snakes were also associated with the healing god Asclepius, who is often shown with a snake coiled around his staff. Bracelets and rings of this specific design have been found in Egypt and Italy, including sites like Pompeii, and examples can be seen in the British Museum, the Louvre and the Archaeological Museum of Naples (see final photo for examples).

The present ring, though virtually the same in design as these ancient examples, is more modern and dates to the second half of the 20th century. The bodies are intricately engraved to emulate scales, and the detail extends to the heads which are also engraved with prominent eyes, teeth and mouths. The outside of the band carries a French control mark for 18K gold.

UK size J, US size 4.75

5.41g 18K gold, band measures 2mm in diameter

The serpent motif has been used in jewellery throughout history. It became increasingly popular during the Georgian and Victorian periods following archaeological finds of the 19th century, the fascination with the ancient Egyptian symbol of the Ouroboros and the association given to the snake in the Victorian period as a symbol of eternal love and wisdom. It’s use in jewellery became very prominent after Prince Albert gave the young Queen Victoria a snake engagement ring to symbolise his everlasting loyalty, protection and love!