Vintage Indian Snake Chain Necklace, Double Rope Chain, Choker, 43 cm (17″), 106 Grams

Vintage, dating to early to mid 20th century, genuine, solid high grade silver flexible snake chain necklace and fine weave extension chains from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Western India.

It has a marking on the end closing - RA - an Indian Silver Hallmark, most probably Rathod Arts from Kolhapur.

This is the older type of handmade chain, not the newer machine made chains that are readily available these days and has a fine tightly braided weave.

The technique used to make this type of Indian silver snake chain is that the finished closely braided silver strands of wire were drawn through a draw plate, becoming condensed and smooth. Through wear over the years it becomes smooth and supple.

The segments of silver herringbone pattern of the weave have worn smooth. The double chain that constitutes the necklace is solid silver and not hollow, so that the item has a balanced weight on the neck - at 106 grams it is quite heavy. The two decorative snake chain cap ends are decorated with a Lotus flower.

The two extension chains are a double strand fine silver weave, hinged together and embellished with two sets of floral units. It has a lovely soft worn patina and beautiful craftsmanship. It has a sturdy 'S' hooked closing.

There are no breaks in the silver wire chain. I have not cleaned the chain and it will polish up beautifully. There is quite a bit of surface residue from age.

Width of Snake Chain: 4 mm (3/8")
Chain Side Extension Length: 8 cm (3 1/4")
Weight: 106 Grams (3.74 oz.)
Length: 43 cm (17")
Tested: High Grade Silver (92.5%) approx.