269 - A 19th century Sri Lankan colour change star sapphire and diamond brooch, the oval cabochon star sapphire collet-set within a surround modelled as a writhing serpent, set throughout with rose-cut diamonds, the head inset with a circular-cut ruby, with ruby cabochon eyes, length 38mm. £6,000-£8,000

A 19th century Sri Lankan colour change star sapphire and diamond brooch, the oval cabochon star sapphire collet-set within a surround modelled as a writhing serpent, set throughout with rose-cut diamonds, the head inset with a circular-cut ruby, with ruby cabochon eyes, length 38mm. £6,000-£8,000 --- Accompanied by a report from The Gem & Pearl Laboratory stating the natural colour change star sapphire (exhibiting colour change from blue to purple) is of Sri Lankan origin with no indications of heating, the star sapphire exhibiting weak star. Report number 27542, dated 9 October 2026. Serpent Jewellery The Ancient Egyptian culture was probably the first to heavily adopt the use of snakes in jewellery, seen as symbolising deity, status and loyalty. In Greek and Roman mythology, the snake continued to be a recurring theme, regarded by many as guardians of the underworld and later said to represent protection and healing. By Renaissance times, snakes were seen in a less positive light, the biblical story of Adam and Eve and the serpent in the Garden of Eden leading to more negative associations of evil or imminent danger. During the Victorian era, serpent inspired jewellery enjoyed a huge revival after Prince Albert in 1840 had designed an engagement ring for his bride, modelled as two serpents in an eternal circle and inset with an emerald (Victoria’s birthstone). At this time, it was popular to include birthstones in engagement rings, rather than diamonds. During the mid 19th century, when nature and symbolism had a powerful influence on jewellery design, serpents became synonymous with eternal love and became a popular motif, fashioned into necklaces, pendants, brooches, bracelets and rings. Condition Report Dimensions of sapphire 16.5 -17mm; width 14 -15mm; depth 9.3mm. Gross weight 15.52gm. ------ For more information, additional images and to bid on this lot please go to the auctioneer's website, www.noonans.co.uk