Antique Victorian 15ct Gold Serpent Mourning Pendant with Banded Agate & Diamond

Striking and highly symbolic Victorian mourning pendant dating to the mid-19th century.
This beautifully modelled serpent is coiled around a cabochon banded agate, centred with an old mine cut diamond. The snake, a powerful Victorian emblem of eternal love, continuity, and rebirth, was especially favoured in mourning jewellery, where it expressed remembrance and the cyclical nature of life and death.

The diamond is set in silver, a traditional Victorian technique used to heighten brilliance against the warmth of high-carat gold. To the reverse is a glazed locket compartment, currently containing a lock of hair, typical of mourning pieces of this period. This may be professionally removed and replaced with a personal keepsake if desired. Finished with an added substantial 18ct gold jump ring, making it ideal for wear on any chain.

The popularity of snake motifs rose sharply following Queen Victoria’s engagement to Prince Albert in 1839, when she received an emerald serpent ring symbolising enduring love and commitment.

The pendant is engraved, ‘In memory, John Brenchley esq. OB 10th November 1847, at OC 68’.

Era: Victorian, circa 1860
Material: 15ct gold & silver (jump ring 18ct gold)
Hallmarks: None, but the piece has been professionally tested
Weight: Approximately 7g
Measurements: The diameter is approximately 1.9cm
Condition: Excellent antique condition commensurate with age

PLEASE NOTE: Only the product listed is included in the sale. All other items in the image are for decorative purposes only.