Antique Victorian Snake Necklace Snake Locket 14k Gold Garnet Carbuncle (6279)

Antique Victorian snake necklace and snake locket. 14k gold and garnet carbuncles. Made in England circa 1850's.

Measurements: Weighs 22.7 grams. Length when stretched out, including the locket is approximately 16.5inches (42cm). Length that goes around neck is a little more than 15inches (38.5cm), not including the tongue of the clasp.

Description: A particularly lovely example of the snake necklaces that were so popular during the early Victorian era. The chain is made of tightly fitting, articulated fully 3-dimentional links that taper towards the tail and slightly towards the head. The chain twists and turns as it encircles the marvellous head of the snake which is naturalistically formed with beautiful detail both top and bottom and set with a large cabochon garnet that conforms to the form of the twisting snake head. Garnet eyes. Attention to detail is unusual, including the beautiful engraving on the underside of the head. The snake holds a heart-shaped locket in it's mouth. The locket is encircled and bordered by another snake with textured surface to its body and small detailed head swinging away from the locket towards the mouth of the larger serpent. The top of the locket is set with a heart-shaped cabochon garnet, matching the one on the large snake's head. The back of the locket holds tightly woven hair under a glass cover. The quality and workmanship of this necklace are exceptional and it looks fabulous when worn at the nape of the neck. Timeless.

Marks: No marks found, but gold was acid tested to ensure metal purity.

Condition: good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.