Ouroboros & Serpent Rings

22 pieces

An ouroboros ring shows a serpent biting its own tail, the old symbol of a cycle without end. In Norse myth the same image belongs to Jörmungandr, the Midgard Serpent, which grew so large that it lies around the whole world and bites its own tail. This collection gathers our serpent rings: ouroboros bands with Elder Futhark runes, Urnes-style Jörmungandr rings, coiled snake rings and ouroboros wedding bands. Most are handmade in 925 sterling silver and made to order in your size, with a few in bronze and one in 14K gold. For serpent necklaces and bracelets, see our Jörmungandr and serpent jewelry, and for the story behind the symbol read what the ouroboros means.

How to choose a serpent ring

Ouroboros bands. The serpent wraps the whole band and bites its tail, sometimes with runes or knotwork along the body. These are the pieces most often chosen as wedding rings.

Jörmungandr rings. The Norse World Serpent in Viking ornament styles, from the flowing Urnes style to bands with oak leaves and acorns.

Snake rings. Coiled or patterned snakes, from slim everyday rings of about 4 g to heavier sculpted pieces.

Metals and sizes

Most rings are 925 sterling silver; some designs also come in bronze, and the ornamental ouroboros band is made in 14K gold. Handmade rings are made to order in US sizes 5 to 15 (the range varies by design), and the size options on each product page show what is available for that design.

QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions

What does an ouroboros ring mean?
The ouroboros, a serpent eating its own tail, stands for a cycle that renews itself: eternity, wholeness and the return of what ends. The word is Greek and means tail-devourer.
Is the ouroboros a Norse symbol?
The symbol itself is older than the Vikings and is first known from ancient Egypt. Norse myth has its own version: in the Prose Edda, Snorri Sturluson writes that Odin threw Jörmungandr into the sea, where it grew until it lay around all the lands and bit its own tail.
Can an ouroboros ring be a wedding ring?
Yes. Because the serpent forms an unbroken circle, some couples choose it as a wedding band, and several rings here are made as wedding rings in sterling silver, bronze or gold.
What is the difference between Jörmungandr and the ouroboros?
The ouroboros is a symbol found in many cultures. Jörmungandr is a character of Norse myth, a child of Loki and Thor’s great enemy, who fights Thor at Ragnarök. Rings showing a serpent biting its tail can stand for either.
What metal are the serpent rings made of?
Most are solid 925 sterling silver. A few designs are made in bronze, and one ornamental ouroboros band is 14K gold.
How do I find my ring size?
Use our ring size guide on the product page, or measure a ring that already fits you. The handmade rings are made to order in US sizes 5 to 15.