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Book Your Virtual ConsultationVictorian 18ct Gold & Shell Brooch with a Rose Diamond Set Snake & Natural Pearl Within
№ 542X
Rare Find
An extraordinary novelty brooch that was made circa 1880-1900. It is composed of a real sea shell with a snake inside set with rose diamonds and a real natural pearl and has 18ct gold fittings.
It appears to be ‘Snake Pearl.’ In essence, it’s a play on words on each of the elements, the snake and pearl. The shell element is rarer to find on a snake pearl.
A snake pearl, is also known as a nagamani, cobra pearl, or snake stone. In real life, it’s a stone or animal bone that is used in folk medicine. Some believe that possessing a genuine and real snake pearl can bring good fortune, devotion, godliness, and fame.
The scallop shell could denote the pearls origin or a Christian symbol of pilgrimage throughout life. Spiritually, seashells are believed to carry calming, healing energies. Some people believe a shell’s hard texture makes one’s mind stronger. That is why seashells stand for a resilient and determined mindset. It also represents protection against evil spirits. Similarly, others believe shells are a bridge between the physical and the supernatural realm.
So it may be a christening shell brooch for a girl, owing to the pink shell. White backed shells are usually for boys. Packages with a Christening shell are still available to buy today, typically for the Catholic faith.
The very small gold circle seen on the back and front of the brooch may be a hair locket for the baby’s first hair.
I would conclude that the brooch is a best wishes message for the baby’s future, possibly from a Catholic family.
The Details
A rare Novelty brooch
Estimated FREE UAE Delivery9th–12th October
- Insured DHL Express
- Duties & VAT prepaid
- 30-day returns
- Signed AJC description
Essentials
Item Number:
№ 542X
Measurements:
3cm by 3.5cm
Rose diamonds approx total weight 0.30 carats.
Rose diamonds approx total weight 0.30 carats.
Place of Origin:
England
Hallmarks
Unmarked, 18ct gold and silver
Many pieces of antique jewellery were unmarked because hallmark regulations were not obligatory until 1972.
Condition
Fair
Good
Very Good
Excellent
Care Tips
- Take extra care with soft or brittle gemstones
- Check delicate settings regularly
- Take special care of historical jewellery
Shipping
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All orders are fully insured and dispatched securely from London by our trusted partner, DHL Express Worldwide.
Estimated Arrival to the UAE
9th–12th October
Returns
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UAE
Customers from the UAE will pay for return postage and any customs, taxes and duties applied.
Customs & Duties
We calculate and pre-pay all customs, taxes, and duties (DDP) at checkout so your order arrives hassle-free.
The following fees may apply to your order:
Customs Duty - 5%
Charged by UAE Customs at 5% of the value of your order (including shipping and insurance) on imports worth more than AED 1,000.
VAT (Value Added Tax) - 5%
The UAE's standard 5% VAT, charged on the value of your order plus any customs duty.
DHL Duty Tax Paid Fee
More info
DHL fronts duties & taxes to expedite clearance, then adds a small handling fee.
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