Gorgeous and substantial Victorian gothic cross with serpent coiled into an 8 representing infinity and eternal love.
 
The cross is enamelled with black enamel in a gothic foliate pattern; the snake with a dappled black enamel and with old cut diamonds, one in the crown of the head, and two for the eyes.
The back has a glass locket at the centre with blonde hair, and bears the inscription’ J L Lotherington Died 25th October 1849 aged 44 ‘
The brooch has a large gold pin and a hinged bale that folds up and converts the brooch into a pendant.
 
The piece is in fabulous condition, there is so slight enamel wear to the bottom part of the snake’s tail but it is not really noticeable (unless with loupe)
 
measures 55mm x 43mm , 15.8g
 
1849 england
 
read more about snakes in jewelry here -
 
https://www.antiqueanimaljewelry.com/post/snake-symbolism-in-jewelry