Remarkable and rare, this beaded snake necklace was handcrafted by Turkish prisoners of war between 1914-1918.
Condition Report:
Excellent - The bead strand and loop at the end of the tail have been added to the piece by a professional beadwork restorer to allow the snake to be worn as a necklace. This is sympathetic to the piece and works beautifully with the original beadwork.
For more information about this necklace, read below...
The Details...
This necklace has been hand crocheted with glass seed beads in turquoise, white, orange and navy blue and is most likely stuffed with horse hair or cotton. It secures around the neck by pulling a loop at the tail over the head of the snake. The piece can be worn as a choker or at a longer length. At its longest length, the snake measures approximately 46cm.
To view a clip of this piece, click here: Beaded Snake Necklace
A Short History...
The beaded snake necklaces crafted by Turkish prisoners of war (POWs) during World War I (1914-1918) are remarkable artefacts that blend artistry with historical significance. These necklaces were handmade by Ottoman soldiers who were captured by Allied forces, primarily the British, French, and Australian armies. They were often detained in Egypt, Cyprus, and Palestine in internment camps. These necklaces reflect Ottoman artistry, as beading was a traditional craft in Turkey and the surrounding regions. The snake was a popular symbol in many cultures, representing protection, transformation, and eternity. Some believe the POWs crafted these necklaces as good luck charms. However, prisoners also traded these necklaces with guards or local civilians for food, supplies, or privileges. Additionally, allied officers and soldiers frequently purchased these handcrafted pieces as war souvenirs, taking them home as mementos. Because these necklaces were handmade in limited numbers, they are now rare and highly collectible. Museums, antique collectors, and history enthusiasts prize them for their historical and artistic value.
Wear it With...
Let this wearable piece of history be the focal point by pairing it with a simple black turtleneck or a white blouse.
The jewellery within the Gemma Redmond Vintage collection has survived to this day because it has been well cared for throughout its lifetime. It is important to continue to care for the jewellery that you buy from us to ensure its continued preservation. Here are some suggestions:
- Be sure to store your jewellery within the boxes that we provide to ensure that it is protected. This is especially important when travelling with your pieces.
- Try not to get perfume or hairspray on your items. These liquids can damage the materials that our jewellery is made from.
- Try not to drop your jewellery or catch your jewellery against hard surfaces. If this happens over time, the findings and fixings can loosen and wear.
- Try not to get your jewellery wet. Some costume jewellery manufacturers utilised water soluble glue in the making of their pieces. Getting your jewellery wet could cause rhinestones and other details to fall away over time.
- If you wish to clean your jewellery, use a soft polishing cloth or a soft brush.
This elegant necklace, featuring shimmering cut glass stones, dates from the 1920s.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This lovely necklace, reflects the craftsmanship and eye for detail characteristic of Czechoslovakian jewellery design. It dates from the 1930s.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This exceptionally rare necklace dates from the 1930s.
Condition Report:
Very Good - Some darkening to the gilded metal in some small areas. This is only visible upon very close inspection and does not detract from the beauty and importance of the piece.
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This chic necklace dates from the 1980s. It was sourced in France and was most liely created there too.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This elegant necklace was created in c.1910.
Condition Report:
Very Good - Some wear to the plating on some of the links of the necklace. This is consistent with age and does not detract from the appeal of the piece.
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This beautiful example of a 1920s tasseled flapper necklace is in wonderful condition.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This elegant necklace, featuring elegant agate panels, dates from the 1950s.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This lovely and wearable example of a glass bead Art Deco necklace was most likely created in France.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This wonderful example of the work of Robert Lee Morris dates from the early 2000s.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This striking black glass pendant is an entirely original, elegant antique.
Condition Report:
Good - A tiny chip to one corner of the pendant and some faint nibbling to the bail of the pendant. These losses do not detract from the overall appeal of the pendant.
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This lovely example of 1980s gold tone styling is by Monet - a classic design from a classic costume jewellery designer.
Condition Report:
Very Good - Minor rubbing to the surface of one plastic cabochon. This is only visible upon very close inspection and does not detract from the overall appeal of the piece.
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This wearable and delicate necklace by French designer Christian Lacroix was made in the 1990s.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This elegant necklace dates from c.1900 and represents beautifully the floral jewels so typical of Edwardian era.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This edgy 1980s necklace is an unsigned statement piece.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This beautiful pendant was created c.1900. It features a magnificent, multi-faceted crystal.
Condition Report:
Excellent
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This pretty locket dates from c.1900 and represents the garland style so typical of Edwardian era jewels.
Condition Report:
Excellent - The locket itself is excellent. However, there is a repair to the enamel photograph of the gentleman.
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Remarkable and rare, this beaded snake necklace was handcrafted by Turkish prisoners of war between 1914-1918.
Condition Report:
Excellent - The bead strand and loop at the end of the tail have been added to the piece by a professional beadwork restorer to allow the snake to be worn as a necklace. This is sympathetic to the piece and works beautifully with the original beadwork.
For more information about this necklace, read below...
