Antique Victorian Malachite Cameo Pendant

This substantial Victorian pendant from the early 1900s is crafted entirely in rich 18k yellow gold and hallmarked with the French eagle head, indicating its origin and purity. Measu...

This Victorian pendant showcases a rich onyx center framed in warm 18k yellow gold, marked with the French eagle head for antique distinction.

This ornate Victorian pendant blends vibrant enamel with 9 antique rose cut diamonds in rich 18k yellow gold, creating a timeless and expressive statement piece.

This striking Victorian pendant from the 1880s showcases forty softly twinkling rose cut diamonds, totaling approximately 0.30 carats, with warm I-J color and antique charm. The diam...

A fine antique Victorian pendant for a necklace. In 14 karat gold. Centered on a salmon and white carved agate or hardstone cameo of a beautiful young lady. The mount with wirewor...

Victorian Cameo Necklace Beautiful Hardstone Cameo Filigree detailing, two colour gold. Rose gold & Yellow gold leaves. Lovely Barrel Cla...

A Victorian hardstone cameo brooch pendant with blue enamel and pearl surround, the hardstone cameo depicting a female face in the Roman style s...

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...