Skip to main content
Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

What is the difference between a cameo and an intaglio?

1 Answer
What is the difference between a cameo and an intaglio?
The difference between a cameo and an intaglio is the texture of the carving. Both terms describe gemstones that have been carved, but the detailing differs. On a cameo, the decorative image protrudes from the gemstone's surface because the artisan cut away material. With an intaglio, the artisan instead cuts into the stone, creating a recessed design. On 1stDibs, shop a range of cameo and intaglio jewelry.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
Shop for Cameo Jewelry on 1stDibs
Dior Cameo Short Costume Pearl Necklace, 2000s
By Christian Dior
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Dior - (Made in France) Short costume pearl necklace composed of several rows and with three cameos
Category

Early 2000s French Choker Necklaces

Vintage Shell Last Supper Cameo Brooch 9k Yellow Gold
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
depicting the Last Supper; part of our cameo jewelry collections. This exceptional and large vintage brooch
Category

Vintage 1970s Brooches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Antique Victorian 9ct Rose Gold Cameo Brooch
Located in London, GB
chain. Cameo jewellery became popular during the Victorian era, which lasted from 1837 to 1901, and was
Category

20th Century English Victorian Brooches

Materials

9k Gold

Antique and Vintage Carved Shell and 18k Yellow Gold Cameo Dress Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
cameo jewellery collections. This stunning, fine and impressive antique ring has been crafted in 18k
Category

Vintage 1960s Unknown Cocktail Rings

Materials

Yellow Gold

Vintage Italian Cameo Pendant Yellow and White Gold
Located in Esch sur Alzette, Esch-sur-Alzette
This Vintage Italian Cameo Pendant is a beautifully crafted piece of jewelry that combines the
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Artisan Pendant Necklaces

Materials

18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

Hardstone and 0.78 Carat Diamond, 18k Yellow Gold Black Cameo Brooch Circa 1880
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
silver set black cameo brooch; part of our diverse antique cameo jewelry and estate jewelry collections
Category

Antique 1880s Unknown Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold, Silver

Shop All