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.
Converted from an antique stickpin, this cameo ring has gorgeous early Cannetille work framing the carved shell cameo. Depicted in profile is Julius Caesar, wearing a laurel crown. Classically paired with a lineal textured replica cigar band, he will command the attention of all your subjects when you wear him!
Details (approximate)
Size (can be resized): 7.5
Weight: 2.11 grams
Materials: Gold, Carved Shell Cameo
Metal: 14K yellow gold
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent converted antique condition commensurate with age and wear