Pretty 10ct Yellow Gold Pearl & Delicate Pink Shell Cameo Brooch / Pendant 9.1g

There are so many varieties of cameos available, carved out of gemstones such as agate, onyx and sardonyx. Cameos mainly have two layers of contrasting colours with often figuratively carvings etched into the stone or shell to create an almost three dimensional artwork. Cameos can also be made out of shell, coral, lava (limestone from Pompeii) as well as plastic, resin and glass. The word 'Cameo' comes from the Italian word 'Cammeo' from medieval latin camaeus, of unknown origins. The meaning of a cameo is that it represents not a fictional character but more is an instantly recognisable portrait of a person or occasionally a place or flower.

This stunningly beautiful, antique, shell cameo bust, is minimally set in a 10 carat yellow gold frame. The cameo itself is so intricately carved, making full use of the natural layers of the shell. The carver is highly skilful and has created a spectacularly well carved portrait, in a figurative style. The beautiful lady is picked out in an alabaster hue with delicate pink tones. She has flowing hair tied up with pretty flowers amongst her tresses. The combination brooch pendant fitting, perfectly frames the lady, unobtrusively and is stamped with 10k to the top of the brooch fitting. This gorgeous piece is further enhanced by the addition of four tiny seed pearls.


The cameo is in good used condition and is delicate but well made. This impressive cameo would be a fabulous addition to any collection. This style of cameo is relatively rare and is so beautiful.


Dimensions are as follows:


Height 4 cm x width 3 cm x thickness 6.4 mm

Weight 9.11 grams