An Edwardian shell cameo ring carved with Erato, the Greek muse of lyric and love poetry, set in 18 karat yellow gold with the quiet formality that defines jewelry from this period. The oval cameo measures 18 by 13 millimeters and is carved in the layered orange and cream tones natural to shell, with Erato shown in profile, her hair gathered and crowned with carved flowers, her gaze turned downward in the classical pose long associated with the muses. The gold bezel is simple and unadorned, letting the carving carry the design, while the plain shank keeps the ring comfortable and easy to layer with other rings from the same period. Shell cameos depicting specific named muses, rather than generic maiden profiles, are less commonly found, and Erato in particular appears less often than her more frequently carved sisters. Stamped 18 karat yellow gold and sized 7.5, the ring weighs 2.5 grams, light enough for daily wear yet substantial in presence on the hand. This is a natural gift for anyone with a love of classical mythology, a background in music or poetry, or a growing collection of Edwardian shell cameo jewelry...
Category
Early 20th Century Edwardian Unknown Rings
Materials18k Gold, Yellow Gold