Antique Victorian operculum double snake ring 9 carat gold

Era: Victorian 1837-1901
Metal: 9ct Gold tested
Gemstones: Operculum
Weight: 4.8 grams
Size: UK L US 5.75 EU 51
 
What a superb Victorian snake ring The condition is good, with the snakes in great shape, although some of the engraving detail has been lost to time, we can still see evidence of the cross hatching to the bodies and some boggle eye face detail. The gold has a lovely warm tone, with a faded high carat plating.
 
The operculum shell is in good antique condition, with some minor age appropriate surface wear. The Victorians believed that the operculum shell would ward off ‘evil eye’ curses and bring good luck. It is a shell found mostly in Australia, Tahiti and Fiji and much prized as with all exotic things in those days. 
 
It is closed back and very comfortable on the hand. Find me another like this, I will be forever envious of its new owner! It needs to be treated with care as there are two splits in the setting (which do not affect the security of the setting) but I would advise to try not to get it wet as we don't want water getting stuck behind the shell.