Antique Garnet and Gold Snake Necklace, Circa 1840

An early Victorian snake necklace, with eight cabochon-cut garnets set in the head, in closed back claw settings, surrounded by scrolling wirework, the mouth is open, with pointed teeth, with a tapering, articulated scale ring link body and an engraved tail end loop, mounted in 15ct gold, circa 1840. In Victorian symbolism the snake biting its tail represented eternal love. In a re-fitted antique box.