The snake has become an iconic symbol in both art and fashion, from classical sculptures of Athena to Alexander McQueen’s sartorial trends. But why has the snake shaped up as an all-time favourite with luxury jewellery? It’s all thanks to one remarkable woman – Cleopatra. The Egyptian Queen’s love for the slithery creature has set the tone for jewellery designers thousands of years later, and has made the snake a staple for high-end jewellers everywhere.
1.Tracing the Jewellery Lineage of Cleopatra
When it comes to mystical, ancient times, few names rise as quickly and widely as that of Cleopatra. A legendary queen from Egypt’s Ptolemaic dynasty, Cleopatra is famed for the wealth of her jewels. To gain a better understanding of the queen, we must take a journey back to a time when centuries of jewellery lineage come alive.
- Egyptian History
The Egyptians of ancient times were well-known for their intricate gold jewellery making, showing reverence to their gods and using it to mark special occasions. This belief was maintained during Cleopatra’s time and coronation. As she began to build her royal jewellery collection, Cleopatra turned to Horus, the most revered Egyptian god, for inspiration. His familiar shape was incorporated into many of the designs, and set with precious stones including emeralds, diamonds, and carnelian.
- Modern Day Influence
The impact of Cleopatra’s jewellery can be appreciated in the contemporary jewellery world, with certain pieces offering more of a timeless elegance than others. Jewellery enthusiasts still seek out those unique pieces that are distinctively Egyptian in style and evoke the ancient mysteries of the past. While all jewellery is special in its own way, Cleopatra’s designs will live on, leaving an indelible impression in the world of jewellery.
2.Unlocking the Secrets of the Serpentine High Jewellery Staple
For those lucky enough to be familiar with the exquisite Serpentine High Jewellery collection, you know it is chock full of intricate and stunning designs. But it may surprise you to discover the timelessness of the delicate pieces, born in the 1700s and surviving to this day. Let’s unlock the secrets behind this unparalleled staple.
- Forever in Vogue – Even after centuries have passed, Serpentine High Jewellery remains just as alluring as ever. From its exclusive sources of rare, genuine gemstones, to its careful manufacture and precise craftsmanship, the pieces hold up to the captivating vision of early creators.
- Style and Versatility – Serpentine High Jewellery adapts to any style. Whether adorned on a gilded neck, a special occasion evening gown, or simply as a part of everyday wear, its sparkle never fails to go unnoticed.
The secrets behind its timelessness are no longer guarded, but freely accessible. The exquisite Serpentine High Jewellery is a staple for jewel-lovers all over the world, and a guarantee of sophisticated class in any wardrobe.
3.The History Behind the Adornment of the Snake
Snakes have been associated with many spiritual teachings throughout history, their presence woven into the cultures of many civilizations. From Ancient Sumerian hieroglyphics to the Assyrian symbols of power – the snake has been used in many ways to represent the divine connection between us and our creative universe.
- The Ancient Egyptians used Snakes to symbolize goddesses and gods, often depicted with the Uraeus cobra upon their heads.
- The Ancient Greeks believed that Asclepius, the god of medicine, carried a staff that a snake was wrapped around.
- The Aztecs honoured the feathered serpent deity Quetzalcoatl, a representation of fertility, moisture and creation.
- The Celts believed that a snake’s appearance symbolized that the Earth was coming back to life after its winter dormancy.
For our ancestors, snakes were both feared and revered. A snake eye signified protection from evil, and it was believed to bring the enlightenment of higher knowledge. For many, wearing an adornment with snake imagery brings connection to their ancient ancestors and a sense of strength, healing and protection.
4.Cleopatra’s Impact on Snake-Inspired Jewellery Trends
The fabled Queen Cleopatra of Egypt is no stranger to modern fashion. Her love for snake-inspired jewellery is one of the driving forces of current trends. From simple hoop earrings embeded with tiny scales, to large pendant necklaces that appear to be draped in slithering ribbons.
Today’s jewellery designers have embraced Cleopatra’s fascination with snake adorned jewellery with enthusiasm. Here are some of the ways her influence is seen in modern collections:
- Embellishments: Small silver or gold snake accents to layer onto rings, earrings, and necklaces.
- Motifs: Band, stackable style rings with snake motifs.
- Materials: Jewellery pieces made from python, boa, and cobra snake skins, all rendered in luxury materials such as 18k gold and sterling silver.
Whether you are after something subtle and stylish, or big and bold statement pieces, a quick look through the latest collections can help you find something that Cleopatra will be proud to wear.
Snakes have long been a symbol of power, luxury, and intimidation. Thanks to Cleopatra, the powerful queen of Egypt, the snake has become a notable jewellery staple to this day. Worn as necklaces and earrings, Cleopatra’s use of the snake symbol has cemented its legendary status as a symbol of style and strength. From the distant days of Ancient Egypt to the modern day, the snake will continue to captivate and amaze us.
