Superb Victorian Whitby Jet snake bracelet, crafted around 1880 in England, in excellent condition, museum quality. It features a snake design, with the body made of faceted and polished jet beads and the head and tail intricately carved. The snake's body is strung on an elastic, allowing it to wrap around the wrist. This piece is very unusual as there is a registration mark under the head which dates the piece circa 1880. The Snake is a symbol for rebirth and endless love and is frequently depicted in Victorian jewellery. It will fit any wrist because of the wrap around design. It could also be worn as a necklace. A bit of history: Whitby Jet is a fossilized wood from trees that existed over 150 million years ago. It was a popular material for mourning jewelry during the Victorian era due to its dark color. The snake is a symbol of eternal love and renewal, making it especially fitting for mourning jewelry. Whitby Jet is considered a rare material, found primarily in the cliffs and beaches near Whitby, Yorkshire. The bracelet is thought to be very fragile, and the elastic band is often replaced to prevent breakage. Measurements: Length: approximately 40cm long. Weight: 32 grams Photographs are part of the description. All measurements are approximate. Photographs are part of the description. Many of my items are vintage and are therefore likely to show some age-related wear. This can include things such as: missing stones scratches, discolouration etc. Please be sure to look through each photograph carefully and read the description fully, to get an idea of condition. Import charges are the responsibility of the buyer!