Antique Victorian 23K Gold Cameo Belt Buckle

This exquisite antique cameo brooch pendant features a finely carved depiction of Venus and Psyche, rendered in high relief from natural shell. The romantic scene shows the winged Ps...

This exquisite antique cameo brooch pendant features a finely carved depiction of Venus and Psyche, rendered in high relief from natural shell. The romantic scene shows the winged Ps...

This dramatic antique shell cameo portrays Mazeppa, inspired by the legendary tale of Ivan Mazepa, the Ukrainian nobleman famously depicted tied to a wild horse. The finely carved sc...

This remarkable antique shell cameo brooch depicts the poignant scene of Hector going to see Paris, drawn from the epic tales of the Trojan War. Expertly carved in shell and set in a...

Welcome to Artisan Antiques based in Mayfair, London - We are delighted to offer this magnificent large antique 18ct gold shell cameo brooch/pendant locket made c.1860, depicting a figurehead of Hera - a Greek mythological goddess of women, marriage and childbirth (also referred to as Juno by the Romans). Its majestic presence, distinguished design and impressive size are immediately captivating even to the untrained eye and whilst undeniably attractive and delightful even at a quick glance, it is upon closer inspection that its true splendour and intricacy can be fully appreciated. The overall design features a whole array of wonderful embellishments and craftsmanship; a profusely decorated frame made from solid 18ct gold is accented with layers of applied gold ribbons/bows, beads and twist-rope borders. What is particularly noteworthy about this frame/border is the fact it has a concave 'doughnut' like shape that contours the cameo whilst also allowing for the spinning locket design to function flawlessly. Upon unfastening the rear pin, the central cameo spins around and presents a locket with a portrait of a gentleman and the fine mechanism and craftsmanship of the central piece can be further appreciated. The portrayal of Hera 'in profile' (side on) is simply splendid with crisp engravings, attractive proportions and an almost lifelike texture/facial expression in the manner of Renaissance sculptures. The reverse side of the brooch reveals a large pin for fastening on to a coat lapel or jumper with an additional later added safety chain. Further, the bail at the top allows for this piece to be worn as a magnificent pendant necklace. All of the combined factors make this cameo brooch a wonderful collectable piece of 19th-century antique jewellery history which would not only make for an excellent display piece but an inimitable and breathtaking brooch to wear on special occasions. Not only would the aesthetic be impressionable, but as a conversation starter, this brooch may serve as the perfect occasion to share your discerning historical/antiques passion...

18k Yellow Gold Cameo Brooch/Pendant. Circa 1890. Woman's Bust Facing Right. 8.6 Grams overall. 1 3/8" width and 2" with Bale up.

This antique carved shell cameo is set inside what is at least a 10k bezel but is potentially a bit finer. This Cameo has very fine detailed carving work and appears to be of Italian...

It's hard to resist the eternal beauty of these stunning hand carved period pieces. With fine detail, the floral head dress and a draping bodice lend to the romance of this heirloom ...