Romance personified! This stunning 19th century brooch is a pinnacle of Victorian artistry, with a unique design that serves as a double entendre.
Crafted in a lovely 18 carat gold, this brooch is fashioned in the shape of a snake, with vibrant turquoise stones encrusted upon its winding figure. Snake motifs were incredibly popular during the Victorian era, as it symbolized eternal love. Prince Albert even presented a snake ring to his wife, Queen Victoria – spawning countless snake design iterations in the jewelry market.
But what makes this brooch so special is that this snake has coiled itself into a lover’s knot.The lover’s knot has been an iconic symbol of love for millennia, and dates back to ancient Egypt. In ancient Greece and Rome, the lover’s knot was also known as the Hercules or marriage knot – and served as a powerful protective talisman.
By the Victorian era, it was common for sailors to wear a love knot bracelet fashioned by their loved ones, to be worn as a protective amulet to keep them safe at sea. Victorians also incorporated the lover’s knot into rings, necklaces, and other forms of jewelry as a way to display their love outwardly on their person, and to declare their romantic devotion to their dearly beloved.
Between its mystical design and sweet sentimental value, this brooch is sure to be an eye-catching and romantic addition to any antique jewelry collection!
Materials and Features: 18ct Yellow Gold, Persian Turquoise
Age/Origin: Circa 1880, English
Measurements: 3.5 cm, 5.3g
Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.
