The snake is one of the oldest motifs in jewelry history - from the ancient Egytian ouroboros to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's 1839 engagement, the snake was used to represent life and death, rebirth, passion, and power. Victoria and Albert's choice of an emerald-set snake as an engagement ring set off a widespread surge in popularity that lasted through her reign, finding this beautifully modelled version near the end of the 19th century. 

Good antique condition; tip of snake's tail appears to have broken off some time ago. c1890s. Originally manufactured in the US but not USMCA-compliant and may incur duties or tariffs.

Details:
• 14k rosy yellow gold, unstamped but tested
• Size 5 1/2 (approximately, slightly out of round), could be resized within 2 sizes 
• One old mine cut diamond approximately 0.09 carat
• Face of ring measures 10.2mm at widest, with a rise of 2.4mm; back of band measures 5.1mm wide and 0.8mm thick
• 4.0g