Antique Victorian Snakes Bangle Bracelet 18k gold emerald diamonds French (7496)

Antique Victorian (Napoleon III) bangle bracelet. 18k gold, emerald and diamonds. Made in France, 19th century.  
Independent appraisal available to new owner.
 

Measurements: 

Weight is 25.1 grams. Inner circumference is a little under 8 inches (20cm). 
Emerald measures 3.01ct; diamonds 0.14ct. 

Description : 

Double snake bangle. The top set with a pale, somewhat cloudy homogenous green cabochon sugarloaf emerald held in a gold colette. Front and back it is bordered by swags of white gold, pave set with small rose-cut diamonds. On either side is a snake head followed by the oval circle of the snake body that leads to a tongue-in-groove clasp on the opposite side. The bangle widens as it moves from front to back, with the widest section at the clasp. 
Heads of snakes are set with tiny diamond eyes in raised white gold rings. Engraved details to heads, emphasize their sleek length. The bodies of the snakes are fantastically textured on the outside in a design emulating the scaly surface of the reptiles. The inner surface is also detailed with realistic scaly segments. 
One of the heads is stationary, while the other is slightly mobile, allowing for ease of putting bangle over wrist. Heads are identical in all other respects. 
There is a figure-of-8 additional security clasp with catch. 

Marks and Metal: 

Tongue of box clasp has eagle head and rhinoceros head (facing left), both marks used for 18k gold. There is a tiny, worn maker's mark lozenge as well.      

Condition: 

Good with minor wear commensurate with age. We found no losses/damage or restorations. Everything is original.  Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.   

THE STORY: 

Snakes were very popular themes in jewelry for thousands of years, with a particular trend for these reptiles during the Victorian era (because Victoria had a snake engagement ring and she was the ultimate trend-setter). Most snake bangles that we see, follow a similar design and while it is attractive, this rare example is quite unique. Being a bangle, it can be worn alone or stacked with other bangles. The large size allows it to be worn quite high on the arm of a very thin person, but also to fit a much larger wrist, making it versatile and wearable by everyone.