Product Review: Bvlgari 18K Yellow Gold Mother of Pearl Serpenti Ring

Snapshot:

• Bvlgari 18K Yellow Gold Mother of Pearl Serpenti Ring
• Color: 18k gold
• Retail: $7,200
• Muse Boutique Price: $4,500

Review:

 

Founded in 1884 by Greek silversmith Sotirios Voulgaris, Bvlgari initially sold silverwork, antiques, curiosities and jewelry in Rome. With its flagship store opening in Rome in 1905, Bvlgari’s prominence continued to grow, and the brand shifted from silverwork to jewelry, drawing influences from French styles, particularly Art Deco.

Bvlgari’s Serpenti collection was introduced in the 1940s and is one of the most iconic and enduring designs in luxury jewelry. The first Bvlgari Serpenti piece was designed in 1948: a bracelet-watch in gold with a square head for the dial and a body that wraps around the wrist. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the shape of the serpent evolved to include the snakehead dial, detailed “scales” and flexible serpentine bodies, and lavish, jeweled embellishments.  

The serpent motif, central to the Serpenti collection, has deep historical and cultural roots, making it a timeless representation of wisdom, transformation, and immortality. Though many attribute the serpent to Bvlgari’s Greek and Roman roots, the use of snakes in adornments date back to Ancient Egypt. Many Egyptian goddesses were associated with the uraeus, an upright serpent, including Hathor, Bastet, Sakhmet and Tefnut. The goddess Wadjet was said to be the matron and protector of Lower Egypt and was often depicted as a flying cobra. 

The serpent was used as an emblem of supreme power, worn on the headdresses of ancient Egyptian deities and sovereigns. Many Egyptian Pharaohs wore the uraeus on their headdresses to signify their legitimacy and to invoke the protection of the goddess Wadjet. To the ancient Egyptians, snakes were the symbols of royalty, divination, and protection. They also symbolized regenerative powers due to their ability to shed skin, linking them to the ancient Egyptian beliefs of rebirth and immortality. 

 

Goddesses Nekhbet and Wadjet depicted on the golden diadem of King Tutankhamun

Later, in Ancient Greece and Rome, snake-shaped bracelets and rings were popular, often worn as protective amulets.

Over the years, Bvlgari has reinterpreted this ancient symbol into stunning jewelry and watches, blending tradition and symbolism with modern artistry, craftsmanship, and luxury. The Bvlgari Serpenti collection is a modern reflection of transformation, power, and seduction. The snake, with its associations of rebirth and renewal, has found resonance with modern women who value independence, strength, and sensuality.  

Bvlgari ambassador Zendaya wearing the Serpenti collection 

Today, a Bvlgari Serpenti ring is highly prized by investors and collectors due to its timeless blend of history, mythology and modern design. A Bvlgari Serpenti ring combines a snake motif with bold luxurious materials including gold, diamonds, and gemstones. Vintage Bvlgari Serpenti rings in rare enamel and gemstone combinations are highly desired by collectors. According to Sotheby’s, most Bvlgari Serpenti rings in the secondary market range from $10,000 to $40,000. 

Bvlgari Serpenti mother of pearl ring, available for
purchase at Muse Boutique

The Serpenti ring with mother of pearl inlay is a rare and gorgeous piece from the collection. It is sculpted from 18k yellow gold and the sinuous replication of the serpent’s body introduces an added benefit of slight expansion of the ring.  The one-coil jewel is heightened by the mother of pearl detailing on the head. The richness of the yellow gold offers a timeless complement to the mother of pearl inlay. It is in excellent condition and serves as a great entry-point into the iconic Bvlgari heritage. 

  

Summary:

 

Pros	Cons
A true collector’s item: archive piece!	None
Fine jewelry: 18k yellow gold with mother of pearl inlay accents
For nearly 80 years, Serpenti collection is one of Bvlgari's most iconic and enduring designs

 

Details:

• Includes Entrupy Certificate of Authenticity
• 18K yellow gold
• Mother of Pearl inlay accents
• Sleek serpentine silhouette
• EU Size: 48 | US Size: 4.5 (slightly expandable)
• Band width: max. 12mm
• Composition: 18K Yellow Gold, Weight: 9.2 grams
  

Note: Vintage pieces may show minimal signs of use, including fading and hairline scratches.

Purchase @ Muse: Bvlgari 18K Yellow Gold Mother of Pearl Serpenti Viper Ring

Shop more luxury jewelry at Muse Boutique.