The rod of Asclepius (also known as the rod of Asklepios, rod of Aesculapius or asklepian)...
is an ancient Greek symbol associated with astrology and with healing the sick through medicine. It consists of a serpent entwined around a staff. Asclepius, the son of Apollo, was practitioner of medicine in ancient Greek mythology. This handmade medallion is cast in sterling silver, oxidized in recesses to enhance the fines detail of this 5/8" long shield pendant. It will arrive in a branded "Moon Raven Designs" gift box ready to present to a graduating nursing student or anyone else involved in the medical community.

Symbolism

The rod of Asclepius symbolizes the healing arts by combining the serpent, which in shedding its skin is a symbol of rebirth and fertility, with the staff, a symbol of authority befitting the god of Medicine. The snake wrapped around the staff is widely claimed to be a species of rat snake, Elaphe longissima, also known as the Aesculapian or Asclepian snake. It is native to southeastern Europe, Asia Minor, and some central European spa regions, apparently brought there by Romans for their healing properties.