Victorian 18ct Gold Snake Bracelet Mourning Locket Blue Enamelled

From my personal collection. A fabulous Victorian gold mourning bracelet (c. 1880) in 18ct buttery gold with a 22ct gold overlay. This is a little piece of history and artistry in one. Articulated as a snake-link chain with a teardrop locket, adorned with delicate blue enamel scrollwork.

To the other side of the locket is a glass-covered compartment to hold a tiny keepsake or lock of hair, a tender reminder of love and memory.

Mourning jewelry became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly during the Victorian era after Queen Victoria mourned Prince Albert. People would wear such pieces to honor lost loved ones, often incorporating hair, enamel, or inscriptions to make the pieces deeply personal.

Its smooth sinuous body mimics the movements of a snake. Finished with an octagonal barrel clasps, with delicate leaf engraving that beautifully sets the bracelet.

I love the smoothness of the snake design, its buttery gold tone, and the vibrant enamel work which makes this piece unique, wearable, and utterly collectible.

On the wrist, it feels comfortable with a nice weight. This is an elegant bracelet, and full of character - a wearable piece of history that’s as striking today as it was over a century ago.

Comes complete with its original tooled box.