Are you strategic, artistic and wise? Here we have an exceptionally rare and versatile piece which can be worn as a pendant or a brooch from the late 1800s featuring a beautifully carved Pompeiian volcanic lava cameo of the goddess Athena (Minerva) in high relief within a sterling silver setting. In Roman mythology, Minerva was the goddess of wisdom, handicrafts, the arts, and later, war, equivalent to the Greek goddess Athena, often depicted with a helmet, shield, and spear.
Despite their age, lava cameo pieces remain elegant and very wearable.
An exquisite addition to any refined collection.
Pendant/Brooch: Safety -clasp. 
 
Lava cameo jewelry became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, especially during the Grand Tour era (mid-1700s to late-1800s). Tourists visiting Italy, particularly Pompeii, purchased these cameos as souvenirs. Made from soft volcanic lava, usually in shades of black, gray, brown, terra-cotta or beige, the cameos were hand-carved into classical or mythological designs. They were highly fashionable in Georgian and Victorian Europe and today are valued as rare antiques.
 
Sourced in France and curated by Paris-based Vivienne Birt for Chateau Love, this pendant/brooch embodies the timeless sophistication and meticulous artistry that defines our carefully selected chateau-worthy collection of luxurious antique and vintage jewelry. 
 
MATERIAL: Lava Stone, Silver 
 
AGE: 
Late 1800s
 
CONDITION: 
Very good – surface wear commensurate with age and use 
 
SIZE:
Height: 3.5 cm
Width: 3 cm
 
Please read descriptions and inspect photos carefully, paying careful attention to size and weight. Due to the age of antique and vintage jewelry, minor abrasions and wear of finishes is normal and appreciated. All items have been tested to be in working/usable condition, unless otherwise stated. Please take care to understand safe cleaning methods for each type of gem and metal. Jewelry pieces are carefully wrapped, ribboned and shipped in an elegant velvet box.