The serpent symbolized eternity, and it became very popular after Albert wished to give a symbolic token of his eternal love, and gave Victoria a snake ring upon their betrothal. This example is extraordinary, as the tortoise has been molded and shaped with superior skill to replicate the sinuous grace of a snake. The scales of the snake are represented by fine gold wires that were inlaid into the tortoise shell. The head is beautifully rendered, and the eyes too are set in gold. It measures a large 2 3/4 across x 1 3/8 down. The reverse has the original t-bar and C-clasp. The condition is excellent. It is for a sophisticated collector, rare and one of a kind. England, circa 1860