Snakes have slithered throughout history years before anyone heard of Adam and Eve. Ancient Egyptians saw snakes as both destroyers and healers. The Ancient Greeks identified snakes with healing deities like Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine.

The snake has long been an emblem for eternity, immortality, and transformation – demonstrated by the shedding of its skin, which symbolizes rebirth and regeneration.

The Romans believed that if a snake ring was worn as an amulet, the snake protected its wearer. The dual-headed Roman gold snake ring below is circa  2 B.C - 1 B.C.

Photo courtesy of Victoria & Albert Museum

Snake rings would appear occasionally in Europe after the Renaissance, but they did not become popular again until the 19th century.

This gold snake ring with ruby eyes, was worn by King George IV toward the end of his namesake Era (circa 1822) and was said to have been one of his favorite rings. Because this ring was made for the king, the ruby eyes are much larger and the scales are much more pronounced.

Photo courtesy of the Victoria & Albert Museum

Before Queen Victoria said, “I do” she ardently accepted a gold engagement ring from Prince Albert - sensuously curved and shaped like a coiled snake; the emerald embedded in the serpent’s forehead was Victoria’s birthstone.

Once Victoria slid the snake ring on her finger, jewelry design took a distinctive twist - snake rings became a fashionable symbol for everlasting love.

Snake jewelry was suddenly in vogue, so it is no surprise that snakes became the perfect Victorian trademark for eternal love in an era where nature and symbology collided in so many pieces of jewelry.

Victorian women were now wearing snake bracelets, armlets, and brooches to match their snake rings.

Photo from Bonhams

While the snake is still a popular motif (and trending) in jewelry today, the original meaning may have been obscured over time, which is why we prefer antique snake jewelry.

The antique snake ring’s very existence echoes a narrative of eternal love and rebirth from eras past, which resonates with us today. 

The incredible antique snake rings in Isadoras’ heirloom collection beautifully capture the snake’s sinuous movement juxtaposed with its tranquil stillness, reminding us that snake rings are magical things, and their message transcends time.

Above Left:  Victorian Yellow Gold Snake Ring

Above Right:  1911 18KT Gold Diamond Snake Ring

Above Left:  Victorian 18KT Gold Snake Ring

Above Right:  Victorian Ruby & Diamond Snake Ring

Above Left:  Victorian Snake Ring with Ruby Eyes

Above Right:  Antique Diamond Snake Ring

Above Left:  Victorian Diamond Snake Ring

Above Right:  Victorian Diamond Snake Ring

If you have any questions, you can reach our knowledgeable staff at 206.441.7711, or e-mail Isadoras Antique Jewelry at info@isadoras.com.