Antique French 18K, Diamond, Pearl & Hard Stone Cameo Brooch

  A cameo is a form of glyptography, or bas-relief carving, most often cut into glass, hard-stones, and shells. Artworks were crafted to create two layers on one piece of material, the top of which protruded from its background, creating a multi-dimensional artwork. These detailed reliefs were often used to adorn pieces of jewelry, including brooches, necklaces, bracelets and rings. The earliest cameos took inspiration from prehistoric petroglyphs, which documented important religious and symbolic iconography onto rock faces.

Victorians loved cameos, and wore them prolifically throughout the era. Our serene gentlelady has a modest stance and a sweet half smile upon her lips. Her garb seems to be a tribute to Heraldic times, which is consistent with the Victorian's love of romantic literature and motifs.

This arresting cameo brooch is crafted of 18 karat yellow gold, with diamonds set in silver, and beautifully matched pearls framing the black and white cameo portrait. Carved of hard stone banded agate, it depicts an ethereal woman in profile. With elaborately coiffed hair, grand earrings and headdress, she is swathed in pearls and draped in fine lace. Quite a regal lady (so regal, in fact, we just had to give her three names)!  She has an extra long safety pin and chain that add to the style of the piece as well as providing ease of wear. A wonderful brooch, destined to become the ruling lady in your collection!

 Details (approximate)

Dimensions: Brooch: 1.5"; Chain: 2.5"; Pin: 1 5/8"

Weight: 7.9 grams

Materials: Gold, Diamond, Pearl, Banded Agate Hard Stone Cameo

Metal: 18K yellow gold, Silver

Marks: French Owl hallmark

Condition: Excellent antique condition

LORL, LOE