Shell Collectible Jewelry

Jean Dunand (1877-1942) A rare lacquer and eggshell cigarettes case. Lacquered metal, inlaid with eggshell, the reverse lacquered black. Stam...

"Two antique 19th century carved Cameo shells featuring sillhouettes of a man and woman. The woman is adorned with grapes and leaves, while the soldier holds a spear and wears a figural galea helmet with wings and serpent mohawk. The most popular cameos today are carved in sea shells, a tradition that began in the fifteenth or sixteenth century and was popularized by Queen Victoria of England. Since that time, cameos have predominately showcased women’s profiles, and been worn by women who enjoy the beauty and craftsmanship of hand-carved cameos. Yet cameos have not always been decorative jewelry for women. In fact, at different points in history they have been worn as frequently by men. While the birthplace of the cameo was nearly 300 years before the birth of Christ in Alexandria, Egypt, cameos owe their origins to ancient carving traditions. As far back as 15,000 BC, petroglyphs — figures carved into rock — were used to record significant events and communicate information. In ancient times people used cameos...

In the late 19th century fans were an essential accessory for women's evening wear and they were made in an unprecedented range of shapes, sizes, materials and styles. This fan is large with a dramatic design to complement the striking silhouettes of late 19th century fashionable dress. The scene painted onto the black silk fan leaf...

A custom-made necklace by famous Moroccan jeweler chez faouzi of marrakesh. A double stranded 30.5" necklace made with an African conus shell, coral and antique Moroccan silver pendant and a nice signature faouzi back neck charm...

A custom-made necklace by Famous Moroccan Jeweler Chez Faouzi of Marrakech. Necklace features a conus shell along with a charming collection of Moroccan beads...