Meaning Behind Antique Snake and Serpent Jewellery

The snake has lots of history of symbolism which dates back thousands of years and many cultures have used the snake to represent various things including good, evil, rebirth, poison, fertility and death. Although there are plenty of negative connotations, there are also many positives, too.

Cultural Meanings Throughout History

Ancient Egypt: Royalty and divinity
Hinduism: Desire and transformation
Chinese Mythology: Reproduction, longevity, good fortune
Roman Beliefs: Everlasting love
Greek Traditions: Wisdom and medicine (Asclepius, Caduceus)

Victorian Period - The Rise of the Serpent Motif

The popularity of snake motifs in Victorian jewellery can be traced directly to Queen Victoria herself. When Prince Albert proposed to her in 1839, he gifted her a coiled snake ring set with an emerald — her birthstone for the month of May. This meaningful design was embraced by the Queen as a symbol of eternal love, and its romantic sentiment soon captured the public imagination.

Following their engagement, snake jewellery surged in popularity across Britain, becoming one of the most iconic motifs of the Victorian era. By the 1840s, the serpent was widely associated not only with love, but also with eternity and wisdom. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, brooches and pendants were all crafted in sinuous snake designs, often featuring intertwined coils, gem-set eyes, or engraved scales — a reflection of both the era’s craftsmanship and its fascination with symbolism.

Greeks Also Looked Toward the Serpent as a Symbol of Wisdom

In ancient Greek mythology, serpents were closely associated with healing and wisdom. The Rod of Asclepius — carried by Asclepius, the god of medicine — features a single serpent winding gracefully around a staff. This enduring symbol, still used today in medical contexts, represents renewal, health, and the dual nature of life and death.

Distinct from this is the Caduceus, a staff entwined by two serpents and often topped with wings. Though frequently mistaken as a medical symbol, the Caduceus is actually linked to Hermes, the messenger god, and is more accurately associated with commerce, balance, and negotiation.

Greeks also looked toward the serpent as a symbol of wisdom

Antique Snake Rings

Victorian snake rings were crafted in a variety of intricate styles, each reflecting the era’s fascination with symbolism and craftsmanship. The serpent’s body was typically formed from one, two, or even three interwoven gold bands, coiled elegantly around the finger to suggest eternity and protection.

Gemstone embellishments were common, with most rings featuring diamonds or rubies set into the eyes or head of the snake — adding a subtle sparkle and an element of lifelike intensity. The finest examples from this period are distinguished by their detailed workmanship, with well-defined heads, engraved scales, and expertly rendered curves that bring the motif to life. These rings remain highly sought after for their romantic meaning and enduring aesthetic appeal.