Elegant Serpent Cufflinks

Among the Victorians snakes were viewed as a symbol of good fortune, a happy marriage and long life.  The serpent sinuously slithering along the edge of these cufflinks is accented with a small Old European-cut diamond and small green stone (likely an emerald) set as the serpent's eye.  Crafted in 14kt gold, circa 1900.

The cufflinks are richly detailed with brightly polished surfaces.  Note the scales along the serpent's back and the details of the head and mouth.  The sinuously twisting serpent filling and overflowing the border of the cufflinks reflects the influence of Art Nouveau design.

The cufflinks are well crafted.  The tops are attached to bean backs with sturdy "Y" bridges.  A small ball of gold was set at the split of the "Y" to increase the strength and stability of the bridge.  The elegance of the design is matched by the goldsmith's craftsmanship and attention to small details.

These cufflinks were created in the early 1900s by the jewelry makers Larter & Sons.  Founded in 1865, Larter & Sons has crafted distinctive gentleman's jewelry for nearly 150 years.  The maker's mark for Larter & Sons,  a stylized shirt stud,  is visible on the bridge of the cufflinks.  Just to the left of the maker's mark is "14" for the purity of the gold.

Name:  Victorian Serpents!

Cost:  These antique cufflinks have sold,  but you will find many more wonderful pairs in the  Antique Cufflinks Gallery

Measurements:  These elegant 14kt gold cufflinks weigh a total of  7.3 grams.  The oval tops are just under  3/4" long and  1/2" wide.