The finest cameos are wearable sculpture, and this beauty is no exception!
This one is extra special, IMO, because this is what is known as a hardstone cameo, also known as agate. You'll see cameos made of shell quite often (see the Deco Era Cameo Brooch for reference), which are pretty of course, but hard stone cameos are unique because the details of the carving are so clean and well defined. This is due to the hardness of the rock itself, and the layers producing two different colors of stone - you'll see the silhouette in white but the background is a darker reddish-brown. This type of agate that has different colored layers is called Banded Agate, it is layers of quartz built up over millions of years. So yes this ring is old, but think of how long it took the agate to form!! Kinda wild.
Our lady is very finely carved, with incredible detail throughout her hair and curls. The coronet in her hair indicates that she is a goddess or royalty- NBD! This gorgeous gal with very sharp details was hand-carved in the Victorian era and framed in a handmade 14K yellow gold setting. The gold frame is textured with a subtle rope detail around the bezel and uniquely detailed shoulders that feature a harp or lyre shape. This makes me think that she was a goddess of music, perhaps!
If you’re into cameos, or even if you're not- the craftsmanship, the old world feel, plus the detail and quality of this piece will make your heart sing 💛 Perfect gift for a fan of the arts and antiquities.
Hand carved agate cameo in 14K yellow gold setting
Circa 1890, Victorian era
Size 6
Band is not stamped, but tests as 14K
