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.
This gorgeous little full-figure cameo ring, carved of hardstone and set on a beautifully stylish 14 karat yellow gold shank depicts a Roman Vestal Virgin, sworn virgin priestesses of the goddess Vesta who also presided over several sacred rites and rituals. After their service at age 30, they were granted freedom to live as they pleased and even had their own money. We have named this piece after the Vestal Virgin Caparronia, who served in 266 BC.
Details (approximate)
Size (can be resized): 3.75
Weight: 3.1 grams
Materials: Gold, carved hardstone Cameo
Metal: 14K yellow gold
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent condition commensurate with age and wear.
LORL, LOE