Over the past several millennia, the snake has been used to represent many things: both good and evil, fertility, passion, and rebirth. The Victorians employed the image of the snake as a symbol of everlasting love. (Thanks to a snake ring given to Queen Victoria by her husband Albert) Serpent themed jewelry was at the height of its popularity from about 1840 until the late 1880s. This spectacular necklace dates to the mid Victorian period - around 1860 - and is made in 14K and 18k yellow gold. The snake's sinuous scaly tail loops around its ornate repoussé head which conceals a hidden clasp. The ruby-eyed serpent holds a pendant heart adorned with bright blue aquamarine. 

• 14 karat yellow gold chain and 18 karat yellow gold snake head and heart drop
• Aquamarine (snake head), approximately 0.40 carats Aquamarine (heart drop), approximately 0.20 carats
• Rubies, approximately 0.04 total carat weight (could not test due to setting, confirmed via microscope)
• 14.59 grams
• 2.7mm width, snake chain 19" length necklace
• 0.5" length heart drop
• Heart drop can hold 1 photo or keep sake, 0.30" length x 0.27" width.
• Circa 1860. No hallmarks or makers mark.