The Year of the Snake: The Timeless Symbolism of Snakes in Jewellery

As we've entered the Year of the Snake on January 29, 2025, it’s the perfect time to explore the long history of snake symbolism in jewellery. At Thornback, snakes have often influenced our designs, appearing in several pieces over the years. Their meaning—linked to transformation, wisdom, and protection—makes them one of the most enduring motifs in jewellery across cultures and eras.

A Look Back: Snakes in Jewellery Through History

Snake-inspired jewellery has been around for thousands of years, with each era and culture bringing its own interpretation.

Ancient Egypt: A Symbol of Power and Divinity

Snakes played a vital role in ancient Egyptian culture, often representing protection and royalty. The uraeus, a stylized cobra, was worn by pharaohs as a symbol of divine authority. Egyptian mythology linked snakes to eternity and rebirth, themes that still influence jewellery design today.

Ancient Greece & Rome: Love, Protection, and Eternity

For the Greeks and Romans, snakes represented eternal love and protection. The ouroboros, a snake eating its own tail, symbolized the cycle of life and infinity. Wealthy Romans adorned themselves with snake-shaped bracelets and rings, believing them to bring strength and safeguard against misfortune.

Victorian Era: A Romantic Emblem

Snakes became a powerful symbol of love and devotion during the Victorian era. In 1839, Prince Albert gifted Queen Victoria a snake-shaped engagement ring, which sparked a major trend in serpent jewellery. During this time, coiled snake rings and necklaces became symbols of eternal love, wisdom, and protection.

Modern Interpretations: Mystery, Strength & Transformation

Today, snake jewellery continues to be popular, often representing rebirth, mystery, and personal growth. The fluid, sinuous form of the snake makes it an incredibly versatile motif, appearing in everything from delicate, minimalist designs to bold statement pieces.

The Year of the Snake & Its Meaning

In Chinese astrology, those born in the Year of the Snake are believed to be intuitive, wise, and graceful, much like the animal itself. This year encourages us to embrace transformation, trust our instincts, and step into our power—all themes that align with the deep-rooted meaning of serpent jewellery.

Snakes in Thornback’s Designs

At Thornback, snakes have long been a source of inspiration. Their elegant, winding forms and rich history make them a perfect muse. Over the years, we’ve incorporated serpent motifs into several designs, always with a focus on symbolism, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.

Honoring Nature Through Jewellery

Our love for the wild extends beyond design—10% of our profits go to animal charities, helping to protect the creatures that inspire our work. The snake, with its deep-rooted symbolism and presence in mythology, reminds us of nature’s power and the importance of preserving it.

Embracing the Energy of the Snake

As we move through 2025, the Year of the Snake, it’s a time to reflect, grow, and shed what no longer serves us—just as the snake sheds its skin. Whether you are drawn to serpent symbolism for its history, its beauty, or its deeper meaning, it remains a powerful emblem of transformation and strength.