Early Victorian Diamond Sidewinder Serpent Brooch

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Early Victorian Diamond Sidewinder Serpent Brooch

$4,250.00

Description

DATE: Early Victorian, c.1840

Exceptional antique serpent brooch dating from the early Victorian period, circa 1840. Given the looping form, it's likely intended to represent a sidewinder (aka horned rattlesnake), and the 3D construction/design effortlessly conveys movement - you can almost see it slithering along... Crafted in 18 karat gold with silver settings, and fully set with old Euro diamonds including four larger stones in the head and ruby eyes.

The sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes) is native to the deserts of north-western Mexico and south-western USA, and is known for its unique sideways locomotion. Quite remarkably, these unusual creatures can hit speeds of up to 18mph. They possess a weaker venom than other species of rattlesnake.

STONES

Old European Cut Diamonds

Ruby

MEASUREMENTS

5.4 x 1.2cm

WEIGHT

3.4g

MARKS

18k gold marks

CONDITION

Excellent, with light antique patina