The Concealed Significance of Lisa’s Bvlgari Snake Necklace at the Emmys

The unique artifact conveyed many narratives.

FRAZER HARRISON/ GETTY IMAGES

A participant from The White Lotus season three was certain to don a snake necklace at the 77th Emmy Awards tonight, where Mike White’s depiction of vacation mishaps is nominated for 23 awards, including Outstanding Drama Series and multiple acting nominations, one of which is for T&C cover star Carrie Coon.

The adorned serpent was observed this evening around the neck of Lalisa Manobal (Lisa), a member of the K-pop group Blackpink, who made her acting debut this season as the Thai resort manager, Mook. The unique jewel, crafted by Bulgari in their signature Serpenti style, features yellow gold and is adorned with an almost four-carat mandarin garnet, 18 pear and marquise fancy sapphires, and 2 pear-shaped orange garnets.

BVLGARI

Her Emmys jewelry was undoubtedly adorned with precious and unique gemstones, imbued with significant meaning. Snakes were a prevalent motif this season on The White Lotus. The snake necklace was crucial in the second episode of the season, during Chelsea's encounter with Chloe as they observe a diamond robbery. The sequence foreshadows Chelsea's near-fatal encounter with a snake in the subsequent episode, when Rick releases captive serpents and Chloe is bitten by a cobra.

The Bulgari Serpenti is perilous just through allure. The Serpenti motif emerged in Bulgari designs during the 1940s, including serpentine-shaped watches that emulated snakes and skin, predominantly utilizing the brand's hallmark gold tubogas. Over the years, the Serpenti became increasingly vibrant with rich hues and dynamic expressions in precious stones. An emerald-eyed Serpenti adorned Elizabeth Taylor's arm on the set of Cleopatra. Who could dispute the 20th century's preeminent connoisseur of gemstones?

The snake represents rebirth and transformation, and the Serpenti perpetually rejuvenates itself. Creative Director Lucia Silvestri abstracts the form of the snake and is renowned for her audacious application of color and cabochon-cut stones to rework the motif with boldness. The new High Jewelry Serpenti were indeed unveiled to the press and clients earlier this year in Taormina, Sicily, a location recognized by ardent fans of The White Lotus as the backdrop for season two. Serendipity?