Snakes have featured heavily in jewelry since ancient times. The Egyptians employed it as a symbol of divine authority, and the Hindus used it as a representation of passion. In 19th century Britain, the snake motif was used as a symbol of love everlasting. The insane popularity of snake jewelry in this period is usually credited to Queen Victoria, who received an emerald-studded serpent ring from her intended upon her engagement in 1840. The royals set the standard for cool, so if the queen had it, everyone else wanted it. This c. 1880 silver snake has a few very minor dings, but is totally undeniable in its dopeness.