Caduceus necklace

FAQ

What does the caduceus actually mean?

It depends on which tradition you're reading. In Greek mythology, the caduceus is Hermes's staff: two serpents twined around a winged rod, symbolising the messenger god's role in mediating between worlds. In medieval and Renaissance alchemy, it picked up associations with reconciliation, balance, and the resolution of opposites. In modern usage, especially in the United States, it's broadly read as a medical symbol, even though the actual classical medical symbol is the single-snake Rod of Asclepius. Outside of medicine, the caduceus is the symbol of commerce, negotiation, and communication.

Why does it have two snakes if the medical symbol has one?

Because someone made a mistake in 1902. The US Army Medical Corps adopted the caduceus as its official symbol that year, apparently confusing it with the single-snake Rod of Asclepius (the actual classical medical insignia). The other branches of the US military followed. Civilian medicine in the United States adopted the caduceus more broadly through the 20th century, and the two-snake version stuck despite being mythologically incorrect. Outside the US, most medical institutions correctly use the single-snake Asclepius.

What size is the pendant and what does it ship with?

The pendant is 28 mm tall in 18k gold vermeil, a 2.5 micron gold layer over a sterling silver core, nickel-free and hypoallergenic, on a 45 cm gold-plated chain with a 5 cm extender and lobster clasp. Free worldwide DHL Express shipping in 1-5 business days, all import duties covered, in a ready-to-gift jewelry box.

Is the silver version different at all?

Same design, same 28 mm size, same proportions. Material is the only difference. The silver caduceus reads as the everyday piece for clinical settings; the gold reads as the milestone or graduation choice. The Rod of Asclepius (single snake) is also in the catalog in both materials for people who prefer the historically correct medical symbol.