24k gold-plated snake figurines among favourite Tet gifts

The 24-karat gold plated snakes are currently hitting local markets ahead of the upcoming Lunar New Year of the Snake, with the items selling for between several million and tens of millions of Vietnamese dong (VND).

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The snake figurines widely introduced in the market are much sought after as a meaningful gift in the lead up to the Tet holiday.

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A gold-plated snake figurine measuring 60x35x69 cm costs VND150 million.

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The weeks leading up to the traditional Lunar New Year festival prove to be the busiest time for artisans, according to Nguyen Tung Lam, a business owner in Hanoi.

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The snake is a more sophisticated figurine compared to other animals, meaning that the gold plating process requires meticulous skills from creative artisans.

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The snake, as the symbol for the Year of the Snake in 2025 according to the lunar calendar, holds deep meanings in Oriental cultures, particularly in countries like China, Vietnam, and the Republic of Korea.

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The snake is a symbol of intelligence, caution, and independence. People born in the Year of the Snake are often admired for their cleverness and ability to be self-reliant.

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The snake also represents protection and strength. In folklore and traditional beliefs, snakes are seen as symbols of safeguarding, overcoming enemies, and prosperity.