Vintage 14K & Carved Hardstone Cameo Brooch/Pendant

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.

Despite its popularity in previous periods, the most well-known era for cameo collection was the 19th century, inspired by royal cameo collectors Queen Victoria and Emperor Napoleon Buonaparte. Shelled cameos, which depicted these natural and humanistic scenes onto deep-sea shells, became quite popular under Queen Victoria’s reign. Similarly, Napoleon himself founded a Parisian apprentice school to foster the talents of young cameo carvers. Cameos have been in continuous production, and remain popular today in brooches, necklaces and rings. After World War II, Victorian jewelry styles enjoyed a revival, and cameos were a popular choice. The hairstyles and costumes hearken back to the nineteenth century, but the features have a more modern appearance.

This vintage cameo brooch is crafted in 14 karat yellow gold, with a hardstone cameo carving depicting a beautiful woman with long flowing hair playing a harp. In Greek mythology, Terpsichore ('delight in dancing') is one of the nine Muses and goddess of dance and chorus. A beautiful piece with a hidden bale, perfect for versatile wearing!

Details (approximate)

Dimensions: 1 3/4" x 1 1/8"

Weight: 15.21 grams

Materials: Gold, Carved Hardstone Cameo

Metal: 14K yellow gold

Marks: None

Condition: Excellent Vintage condition commensurate with age and wear