The ouroboros is an ancient symbol steeped in myth and legend that depicts a snake, or sometimes a dragon, eating its own tail.

Just as the snake, a symbol of creative life force, sheds its own skin and regenerates new skin, the ouroboros sustains itself by eating its own tail.

This rare 9k gold mourning brooch features a braided lock of hair in the center. There is evidence that this is actually an early conversion piece from a clasp. Many Georgian pieces were made in higher karat gold, but rings and clasps were often done in 9k, as it was much more durable.