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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
Vintage 10K Yellow Gold Cameo Ring, Unisex, 20th Century, 8.3g
Located in New York, NY
This ring is a wonderful example of traditional cameo jewelry—perfect for collectors or anyone who appreciates vintage craftsmanship and enduring style.
Category

20th Century Modern Engagement Rings

Materials

Gold, 10k Gold, Yellow Gold

Silver necklace with pendant, crafted with a classical cameo. 1920s/1930s
Located in bronshoj, DK
During the 1920s and 30s, cameo jewelry was a popular and elegant accessory, often set in silver with finely ornamented frames.
Category

Vintage 1920s Swedish Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Silver

Antique Gilt Mary Joseph and John Cameo Brooch
Located in New York, NY
A beautiful representation of faith, family, and tradition—ideal for collectors of devotional or antique cameo jewelry. Weight: 11.4 Grams Material: Shell Measurements: 44.91 x 36 x...
Category

Antique 19th Century Brooches

Materials

Gold Plate, Copper

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

Vintage 1970s Brooches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Dangle Earring with Shell Cameo & Pearl with Pave Diamonds Made in Gold & Silver
By Artisan NYC
Located in New York, NY
Metal Details 18k Gold: 2.05g Silver: 7.242g Diamond Details Total Diamond Weight: 1.64ct Gemstone Details Pearl Weight: 9.1ct Shell Cameo Weight: 18.45ct Product Features Style: ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Silver, Gold

Vintage 14k Yellow Gold Neoclassical Woman Cameo Pendant
Located in New York, NY
Thoughtful proportions and solid construction make this piece a beautiful example of vintage cameo jewelry with enduring charm. Weight: 18.0 Grams Stone: Shell Cameo Measurements: 6...
Category

20th Century Neoclassical Pendant Necklaces

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

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