A remarkable pairing: a Sicilian coral collar and a dramatic enamel 18ct snake center piece—originally a brooch—presented as a remarkable 1830s set. The snake, in a rare colorway of coral, black, and white enamel, holds a golden heart locket in its mouth, and sits at the center of a fabulous necklace from Sicily, still in their original swagger collar format.
Our incredible snake is likely a close contemporary to a snake bracelet sketched in 1837 for Queen Victoria’s portrait The First Council, giving us an unusually precise historical link. The completed work (1838) was by David Wilkie. Spend some time staring at his little teeth!
With three hooks on the reverse, the snake becomes a modular wonder: the coral necklace and the snake can be worn together or separately, and each element can be combined with other pieces; the snake with all of your necklaces (hello Eloise!) and chains, the collar with every brooch in your collection. A deeply collectible object, underscoring that the modular jewelry wardrobe is not a modern invention.
Materials and Features: 18ct gold, enamel, Sicilian coral
Age/Origin: English and Sicilian, circa 1837-1838
Measurements: Snake: 3", Necklace: 13.5", 16.5" worn length
Weight: 22.6g (snake), 30g (necklace)
Condition: Excellent for its age; minor expected enamel wear.
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.
