Corkscrew Snake 925 Silver in Case — antique patinated

A corkscrew made of 925 sterling silver, its handle depicting two snakes winding around a common central rod — the figure of the Caduceus, the staff of Hermes, one of the oldest symbols in Western mythology. In the Chinese zodiac, the snake is also the sixth sign, traditionally associated with wisdom, intuition, and transformation. Thus, this piece carries a double layer of meaning in a compact silver sculpture.

At a Glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, antique patinated
• Silver weight corkscrew: approx. 35 grams
• Total weight in case: approx. 318 grams
• Corkscrew dimensions: 120 × 50 × 35 mm
• Packaging: fabric-covered case with velvet lining
• Motif: Caduceus — two snakes around central rod, spiral helix

Material and Workmanship

The material is 925 sterling silver, meaning 92.5% pure silver. The scaled skin texture of both snake bodies is finely modeled, the small heads at the top face each other with slightly open mouths, and the eyes are engraved. Scales, central column, and spiral are antique patinated: a thin, superficial blackening remains dark and visible between individual scales and at the shaft articulation, while the raised areas are polished to a shine — this makes the scale relief stand out sculpturally. This blackening is not paint, lacquer, or coating, nor is it niello. Niello is a different technique with molten sulfur-silver paste in engraved depressions; here, it is a superficial coating that also acts as a protective layer against further uncontrolled tarnishing. If necessary, the raised areas can be carefully repolished with a soft silver polishing cloth without the scale depressions losing their depth. At approx. 35 grams, this corkscrew is the most delicate model in its range. The spiral helix is classically shaped and well-suited for modern and moderately aged natural corks.

Use and Occasions

The snake corkscrew is a statement piece with double symbolism — suitable for those born in the Year of the Snake as a personal gift, for business partners and mentors with connections to trade, communication, or diplomacy via the Caduceus as a symbol of Hermes, for collectors of mythology or zodiac pieces, as well as a substantial men's gift for a milestone birthday, retirement, or business anniversary. The piece is also suitable as a symbolic gift for the Chinese New Year in the Year of the Snake.

Engraving and SilberVerse Card

An engraving is possible upon request, usually on a smooth area of the central column or under the snake heads — for example, initials, a birth date, or a short dedication. We will coordinate the content, font, and position before execution. Additionally, upon request, we include a personal SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm landscape) — individually designed, suitable for the occasion, and currently free of charge, also available without engraving.

Care

Wipe dry after use, no dishwasher. If there are wine residues on the spiral, rinse briefly with lukewarm water and dry immediately. The included case is suitable for storage, ideally with an anti-tarnish strip. Tarnish marks on the raised areas can be removed with a soft silver polishing cloth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a Caduceus or a Rod of Asclepius?

The Caduceus has two snakes winding around a central rod — a symbol of Hermes for trade, communication, and diplomacy. The Rod of Asclepius, on the other hand, has only one snake and represents the art of healing. This piece clearly shows two snakes and is therefore a Caduceus.

What is the meaning of the snake in the Chinese zodiac?

The snake is the sixth of the twelve Chinese zodiac signs. Those born in the Year of the Snake are considered thoughtful, intelligent, and intuitive.

Is an engraving possible?

Yes, upon request, usually on the central column or under the snake heads. We will clarify the details before ordering.

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Further gift ideas with a silver character can be found under Gift Ideas. For suitable sterling silver tableware additions, check out Silver Tableware & Silverware.