Marcus Tempus
Product Story
Elegant, symbolic and beautifully distinctive, this Victorian 18ct Yellow Gold Snake Ring is a remarkable example of nineteenth-century design, celebrating one of the most iconic jewellery motifs of the era.
Expertly crafted in 18ct yellow gold, the serpent gracefully coils around the finger, its body highlighted by a beautiful satin finish that creates a rich, soft golden glow. A trail of sparkling old mine cut diamonds follows every curve of the snake, while vivid ruby eyes bring the design to life with a striking touch of colour.
The contrast between the satin-finished gold and the lively brilliance of the diamonds gives the ring exceptional depth and character, allowing every detail to stand out beautifully.
During the Victorian period, the serpent became a powerful symbol of eternal love, wisdom and protection, making snake jewellery one of the most sought-after designs of the nineteenth century. Today these remarkable pieces remain highly collectible for both their symbolism and craftsmanship.
Adding further individuality, the ring bears a hand-engraved "1894" inscription, a charming historic detail that forms part of the ring's unique story.
Carefully selected for Antique Jewellery by Marcus Tempus, this one-of-a-kind ring celebrates exceptional craftsmanship, enduring symbolism and the timeless beauty of genuine antique jewellery.
Product Details
- Collection: Antique Jewellery by Marcus Tempus
- Period: Victorian
- Metal: 18ct Yellow Gold
- Finish: Satin (Frosted) Finish
- Gemstones: Old Mine Cut Diamonds & Natural Ruby Eyes
- Design: Snake Ring
- Inscription: Hand engraved "1894"
- Availability: One of a kind
Marcus Tempus Heritage Passport
Reference: MT-HP-002
Travel Through Time
Victorian Passport
Destination: Victorian Britain · 1837–1901
Jewellery shaped by sentiment, symbolism and extraordinary craftsmanship.
The Age of Sentiment
Jewellery With Meaning
Victorian jewellery was rarely chosen for appearance alone. A serpent could represent eternal love, a forget-me-not remembrance, and a locket might hold a portrait, a curl of hair or a private message.
Love, family, faith and memory were expressed through gemstones, motifs and hidden details intended to be understood by the wearer.
Britain, circa 1870
Lockets, engraved gold and symbolic motifs made jewellery intensely personal.Care & Preservation
Respecting Historic Construction
Victorian jewellery may contain foil-backed stones, closed settings, enamel, seed pearls or delicate hinges. Water, steam and ultrasonic cleaning can cause permanent damage to some pieces.
Cleaning and restoration should always be guided by the construction of the individual jewel rather than by the gemstone alone.
Details to Discover
Recognising Victorian Jewellery
Serpents and Symbols
Serpents, flowers, hearts, hands, anchors and celestial motifs carried meanings of love, faith and protection.
Lockets and Secrets
Portraits, hair and private inscriptions could be concealed inside jewellery worn close to the body.
Hand Engraving
Monograms, floral scrollwork and finely cut patterns gave even small jewels individual character.
Enamel and Colour
Black, blue, white and multicoloured enamel introduced contrast, symbolism and decorative richness.
Materials of the Era
Colour, Texture and Meaning
Warm and Expressive
Rich yellow gold suited engraved surfaces, sculptural motifs and lockets.
Diamond-Set Contrast
White silver settings allowed diamonds to shine while gold protected the reverse.
Decorative Storytelling
Enamel added colour to flowers, memorial jewels and ceremonial pieces.
Pinchbeck and Rolled Gold
Period alternatives were also used and should be identified honestly.
Gemstones of the Era
A Rich Victorian Palette
Garnet
Deep red garnets brought warmth and romance to rings, brooches and necklaces.
Turquoise
Turquoise appeared in sentimental clusters and floral designs.
Opal
Opals offered changing colour and mystery, particularly in later Victorian jewellery.
Pearl
Seed pearls and natural pearls appeared in delicate floral, memorial and bridal jewels.
Did You Know?
Victorian Jewellery Changed With the Queen’s Life
Marcus Tempus Heritage Jewellery
A Piece With a Past
Individual Character
Antique jewellery may show gentle wear, historic repairs, earlier resizing or replaced components.
Professionally Examined
We examine the setting, gemstones, hinges, clasps and principal components before offering a Victorian piece for sale.
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Dates and period descriptions are based on construction, materials, hallmarks, design and available evidence. Where an exact date cannot be confirmed, we use the most appropriate period or style attribution.
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