Corkscrew Snake 925 Silver in Case — antique patinated

A corkscrew made of 925 sterling silver, its handle featuring two snakes winding around a 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 the sixth sign, traditionally associated with wisdom, intuition, and transformation. Thus, this piece carries a dual layer of meaning within a compact silver sculpture.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, antique patinated
• Silver weight of corkscrew: approx. 35 grams
• Total weight in case: approx. 318 grams
• Dimensions of corkscrew: 120 × 50 × 35 mm
• Packaging: fabric-lined case with velvet interior
• Motif: Caduceus — two snakes around a central rod, helical spiral

Material and Craftsmanship

The material is 925 sterling silver, which is 92.5% fine silver. The scaly skin texture of both snake bodies is finely modeled, the small heads at the top face each other with slightly opened mouths, and the eyes are engraved. The scales, the central column, and the spiral are antique patinated: a thin, superficial blackening remains visibly dark between the individual scales and along the shaft structure, while the high points shine with a polish — this makes the scale relief stand out sculpturally. This blackening is neither paint, nor lacquer, nor coating, and it is not niello. Niello is a different technique involving fused sulfur-silver paste in engraved depressions; this is a superficial finish that also acts as a protective layer against further uncontrolled tarnishing. If necessary, the high points can be carefully polished with a soft silver cloth without the scale depressions losing their depth. At approximately 35 grams, this corkscrew is one of the lighter models in its series. The helical spiral has a classic shape and is well-suited for both modern and vintage natural corks.

Use and Occasions

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

Engraving and SilberVerse Card

This piece cannot be engraved; as a personal addition, we offer a complimentary SilberVerse card. Upon request, we will include a personal SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm landscape) — individually designed to match the occasion and free of charge.

Care

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a Caduceus or a Rod of Asclepius?

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

What is the significance 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, clever, and intuitive.

Is an engraving possible?

No. This piece cannot be engraved; as a personal addition, we offer a complimentary SilberVerse card.

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Further gift ideas with a silver character can be found under Gift Ideas. For suitable silverware additions, take a look at Tableware & Silverware.