Antique Victorian Garnet Snake Heart Bracelet 18ct Gold With Locket And Box

Beautifully preserved from the late 19th Century, this exquisite antique Victorian garnet snake bracelet is crowned with three cherry-pink almandine garnets atop the serpent’s head, with garnet eyes on either side. The head has also been finely engraved with foliate patterning and a large heart charm is suspended from its mouth, featuring another garnet in the centre, with a secret locket concealed at the back that would have traditionally held a lock of a loved one’s hair. 

Coiled snakes have long carried symbolic meaning, but they became especially popular in the 19th century as a token of love and devotion after Prince Albert presented Queen Victoria with a serpent ring during their courtship. The union of the snake’s head and tail represents eternity, while its tightly coiled body signifies a strong, unbreakable bond. Garnets enhance the romance further, with their deep red/ pink hues evoking the passion, devotion, and the enduring love of the heart.  

The bracelet is fashioned entirely in 18ct yellow gold with an ingeniously designed body, made up of star-studded snake-links, skilfully interlocked to create a long, articulated body that slithers fluidly. It’s finished with a sturdy box clasp that wraps around and fastens securely with the snake’s head.

This is an exceptionally crafted Victorian garnet snake bracelet, very rare and in excellent condition. It’s been accompanied faithfully over the centuries by its original antique box, with a dark leatherette exterior and double catch, that opens to reveal cream silk and a velvet cushion within, with a slithering indentation for the snake to rest in.    

We recommend you insure for £5,300. We can provide a written Valuation on completion of the sale.  

WEIGHT: 23.6 grams  

MEASURES: Length 7.5 inches x Width 4.5mm – Head Height 54mm x Width 21mm – Heart 15.5mm x 16mm – Locket 12.5 x 12mm 

METAL: 18ct Gold            

STONES: Almandine Garnets (Largest approx. 1.3ct – 5ct total)

AGE: Victorian. (Circa 1860 – 1880)  

CONDITION: Excellent, commensurate with age 

ITEM NUMBER: JF0901 

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