Over the past several millennia, the snake has been used to represent many things: both good and evil, fertility, passion, and rebirth. The Victorians employed the image of the snake as a symbol of everlasting love. Serpent themed jewelry was at the height of its popularity from about 1840 until the late 1880s. This spectacular necklace dates to the mid Victorian period - around 1860 - and is made in 18k yellow gold with a handmade mesh chain that subtly graduates up in size. The snake's sinuous scaly tail loops around its ornate repoussé head which conceals a hidden clasp. The ruby-eyed serpent holds a pendant heart adorned with flowers in its mouth.