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Samantha Knight Shares Her Guide for Buying and Styling Jewelry for the Year of the Snake

The Year of the Snake is officially here, which means it’s time to shed old skin and let go of negative energy. Based on the Chinese lunisolar calendar, this lunar new year makes way for a fresh start. While the snake may be seen as a negative omen for Western cultures, it’s a celebrated symbol in the East.

To kick off this year of the snake, Modern Muze talked to LA-based jewelry designer and vintage curator, Samantha Knight. Curating jewelry motifs and statement pieces worldwide, Knight shares her new collection, which blends timeless beauty and rich symbolism of Victorian-era jewelry while adding 1970s spice to this new year. Get ready to give your closet much-needed, rebellious touches, and cleverness with her tips.

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1. Given the historical significance of snake motifs in jewelry, particularly within Victorian-era pieces, how do you see contemporary interpretations of this symbol differ from those of the past?

The snake motif has certainly evolved throughout time–I suppose we could say that it has shed its skin (pun intended). Jewelry is such a treasure trove of history—especially designs that include creatures as symbolic as the snake. In Victorian-era jewelry, they slithered onto the scene as symbols of eternal love, wisdom, and protection. Queen Victoria was quite the icon rocking a snake engagement ring–talk about setting trends! Pieces from this era were all about intricate details—coiled bodies, sparkling gemstone eyes, and a regal vibe that felt straight out of a fairytale.

Fast forward to today—we see interpretations of snakes that are bold, sleek, and unapologetically modern. You see everything from minimalist designs with clean, polished lines to oversized, sculptural creations that scream “statement piece”. Designers now use the snake as a canvas to express themselves with texture, scale, and drama.

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What I really love is how the symbolism of the snake has evolved. Back then, it was all about eternal love and devotion. Now? Snakes represent personal power, transformation, and owning your individuality. The snake’s still timeless, but it’s matured and even morphed—like us, really. It’s proof that this symbol will always reinvent itself while still maintaining magical, historical charm. Who wouldn’t want to wear that kind of story?

2. What are some of the most unique or unexpected ways you’ve seen the snake motif incorporated into jewelry design in recent years?

Snakes in jewelry have totally leveled up lately, and I’m continually inspired by the creativity! I’m always thrilled when I see snakes sneaking into unexpected places—like ear climbers that coil up the ear or rings with tiny, hidden serpent details. It’s like a secret between the piece of jewelry and the one wearing it–and that feels exciting. I also love seeing that designers are playing with materials in fun ways—snakes made of enamel or woven metals that mimic scales.

Courtesy of Samantha Knight

And I can’t not mention my absolute adoration for statement pieces—oversized chokers, lifelike cuffs, I’ve even seen necklaces with hinges so the snake appears to move with one wearing it. The snake motif isn’t just symbolic—it’s alive and thriving, constantly evolving in bold, unexpected ways. You never know where it’ll show up next, and that’s what makes it fascinating.

3. How can someone effectively style snake jewelry to reflect their personal style, whether it’s classic, bohemian, or avant-garde?

Snake jewelry is so versatile—it can be incorporated into any sense of personal style with ease! If you’re going for a classic vibe, stick to timeless pieces, perhaps even understated, like a dainty gold snake ring or a sleek bracelet. Pair it with a white tee and a tailored blazer, dark tailored denim, and a pair of pointed toe flats and you’ve suddenly mustered an effortless, elegant look that’s as timeless as snake jewelry is.

For a bohemian feel, lean into texture and layers. Think snake motifs in earthy tones, enamel, or even mixed metals. Maybe try out a layered snake pendant with other necklaces, stacked bangles, even eclectic pieces with gemstone details. When paired with flowy fabrics and romantic silhouettes, you’ve suddenly transformed yourself into a free-spirited goddess.

If you’re all about avant-garde, go bold. The options are endless when it comes to statement pieces that incorporate snakes in their designs–oversized snake cuffs, coiled chokers, or earrings that climb up the ear. These pieces pair perfectly with sleek, minimalist clothing, allowing them to truly take center stage. 

Snake jewelry is a chameleon, if you will—it can adapt to fit into any style and can really be used to express who you are and what you love. 

4. Considering the snake’s association with rebellion and cleverness, how can someone use snake jewelry to make a bold statement or express their individuality?

Snake jewelry is perfect for channeling that rebellious, clever energy—it’s all about owning your power and turning heads. To make a bold statement, go for a piece that feels unapologetically you. For me, this means a bold snake bracelet—and bonus bad-ass points if it’s worn on your upper arm. 

5. What are some of your favorite pieces from your collection that feature the snake motif, and what inspired their design?

The Victorian-era snake rings included within the collection hold a special place in my heart. They represent history and romance. I’ve found myself more than once daydreaming about who the original owners of each piece were and what they felt when wearing the jewelry. 

There’s something so captivating about the craftsmanship of that time, especially the way they wove symbolism into every detail. I have a special love for snake rings with gems; sometimes, the different gems might represent each person’s birthstones in the relationship. These are my absolute favorite finds! They represent intertwined lives and it feels like the piece is guarding a little treasure – a beautiful nod to the snake’s association with protection and wisdom.

These designs resonate so deeply to me as a designer–they balance beauty with meaning. The Victorians loved snakes as symbols of eternal love and loyalty, and that sentiment feels timeless. These pieces don’t just make a statement—they tell a story, and that’s what I look for in every piece I curate.

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