This French 18k gold coral and diamond snake ring exemplifies the sculptural design language of late 1960s to 1970s modernist jewelry. Designed as a stylized cobra motif, the ring coils in a bypass form, with the head rising at the center to frame a pear shaped cabochon coral. The coral displays a warm salmon to orange hue with visible natural grain and is bezel set within an irregular, freeform gold surround. The surface is finished with a textured, organic pattern that reflects the Brutalist influence of the period. Small round brilliant cut diamonds are set asymmetrically throughout the design, including one slightly elevated in a collet setting, adding dimension and emphasizing the movement of the snake form. The shank continues the coiled snake design with consistent texturing, reinforcing the motif and sculptural composition. The ring is stamped with a French eagle head hallmark confirming 18k gold, along with a maker’s mark featuring M and H with SM above, indicating French workshop production. It weighs 11.8 grams, is a size 4.25 and can be resized, and measures 1 inch in length from top to bottom and 3/4 inch in width. There is visible wear and patina to the gold, consistent with age and use.
