Antique Snake Necklace with Turquoise & Garnet

Can we take a minute to admire the hand engraving on this snake necklace? This is a beautiful example of mid-Victorian snake jewellery, modelled in 9ct gold and decorated with turquoise cabocons and small garnet eyes.

The tongue clasp fastens to the snakes head and sits on the collarbone, the total length of this piece when worn is 16". At some point a small locket would have dangled from the snakes mouth which has since been removed, but the loop is there if you want to add your own.

The chain of the necklace is a wide (2.3mm) antique snake (aka Brazilian) chain. I do believe this chain to be original to the necklace, and over time it has taken some twists which you can spot in photos. It isn't kinked and sits well / runs smoothly through the fingers. This has been factored into the price.

Material: 9ct yellow gold, turquoise, garnet

Weight: 11.44g

Length: 16" when worn, 16.25" nose to tail

Date: C1890