A coiled serpent of the American archaeological revival, circa 1870, rendered in warm hollow 14ct gold. The snake’s sinuous body twines around a pair of golden bars, which connect to two large boules—each richly decorated with applied caning, a detail borrowed from the Etruscan revival style and perfectly in step with the eclecticism of the period.

In France, jewels featuring entwined serpents were often called bijoux à Cléopâtre, a romantic nod to the legendary queen’s fabled death by asp. This piece draws from both Egyptian and Etruscan revival traditions, embodying the 19th century fascination with antiquity. Light on the wrist, rich in detail, it is as wearable now as it was when first admired in the 1870’s.

Materials and Features: 14ct yellow gold, applied caning on boules

Age/Origin: American, circa 1870

Measurements: Fits wrist up to 6.5”

Weight: 13.3g

Condition: Excellent antique condition; minor wear consistent with age.

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.