Snake Brooch Value Guide

This 1980s American-made snake brooch captures the bold aesthetic of late 20th-century costume jewelry while honoring a design tradition popularized by Queen Victoria. Its serpentine form, embellished with sparkling rhinestones and dark eyes, makes it a striking example of the decade's revival of ancient symbolic motifs.

What affects the value of Snake Brooch?

• Condition of the gold-toned plating, as significant wear or pitting can decrease the value below the $40-$60 range.
• Completeness of the clear crystals, as missing or 'dead' rhinestones significantly impact the aesthetic and market price.
• The structural integrity of the serpentine shape and the functionality of the fastening mechanism.
• Market demand for 1980s revivalist jewelry that mimics Victorian-era symbolism like eternity and healing.

How to Identify Snake Brooch?

• Verify the 1980s construction by checking for a sturdy safety pin clasp or 'C' catch on the reverse side.
• Examine the gold-toned finish for consistent plating and the presence of dark-colored stones specifically set for the eyes.
• Look for the characteristic 1980s United States manufacturing style, often featuring pave-set clear rhinestones across the snake's body.
• Check for any maker's marks on the back of the gold-toned metal, though many pieces from this era remain unsigned.

History of Snake Brooch

Snake jewelry has been a symbol of eternity, rebirth, and healing across many cultures since ancient times. Its popularity surged during the Victorian era, influenced by Queen Victoria's engagement ring, which was a snake coiled around an emerald. This particular style, featuring a serpentine form embellished with gemstones, enjoyed various revivals throughout the 20th century as a fashionable accessory.