Antique Victorian Colombian emerald and garnet snake necklace 18 carat gold

Era: Victorian 1837-1901
Metal: 18 carat Gold
Gemstones: Garnet eyes 2mm each. Emeralds on snake head 5x6mm, 6.2x3.5mm, 4x4mm.
Emeralds on heart 3.2x2mm, 2.6x2mm x three.
Weight: 19.8 grams
Length: 39.5cm/15.5 inches
Snake Head: 25x17mm
Heart: 15x15mm
 
What an incredible Victorian snake necklace this is, with a truly rare combination of gemstones and a most delightful face! I haven't ever come across one before, set with such juicy Emeralds to the head and heart dangle. 
 
The Emeralds have been assessed by The Gem and Pearl laboratory and are confirmed as natural emeralds, with the largest two originating in Colombia and as having no treatments or enhancements. The Emeralds are all free from chips and are in remarkable condition considering the age, but the smallest of the large Emeralds set into the head, has a surface reaching inclusion which appears like a small scratch on the surface. If you wish for the piece to be accompanied by a certificate of the origin of the Emeralds, from The Gem & Pearl laboratory, do let us know and we will have this done before sending. Please allow 3 weeks for completion.
 
It's a good wearable length of 15.5 inches approximately and is in excellent antique condition.
 
The snake head has beautiful gold work with scrolling details, granulation and the tail has a cross hatch snake scale pattern. The chain is the original victorian snake scale link chain and the original matching closed back heart dangle hangs from its mouth. There is a deep patina to the head between the scrollwork.
 
It flashes a toothy smile from the side profile and the clasp fastens securely.
 
The chain graduates from 3.5mm wide to 2mm where it attaches to the snakes head.
 
A truly wonderful piece of history we simply do not come across very often anymore, especially not with all the original parts present and in such gorgeous condition. This has been very well cared for and I have yet to find one set with Emeralds like this!