A magnificent Italian sardonyx shell cameo dating to around 1880 set in a slightly later Edwardian 14k gold scrolled setting. It depicts the Roman gods Venus and Mars in an allegory of beauty and valor. This cameo featuring two right-facing mythological characters is very rare and exquisitely beautiful. A celebration of true artistry, love and beauty. 
Trombone clasp. 
 
Ancient Sumerians created the first cameos, often used as seals. The ancient Greeks also used cameos as currency, and many of these pieces have been found in archaeological excavations. Cameos continued to be popular during the Roman Empire and were often used as signet rings. During the Renaissance, cameo jewelry experienced a revival, making it fashionable for men and women to wear cameos. The Victorian era was also a golden age for cameo jewelry, and many beautiful pieces were created during this time. To support what soon became a continental craze, Napoleon established a school in Paris and staffed it with abducted Sicilians who trained young Frenchmen in the glyptic art. For the first part of the 19th century, these artisans rivaled in output and excellence their Italian peers, producing some of the most innovative examples of the genre.
 
MATERIAL:
14k gold, Sardonyx Shell
 
AGE: 
1880s
 
CONDITION: 
Excellent – surface wear commensurate with age and use
 
SIZE:
H 4 cm
W 3.5cm
 
WEIGHT:
10.01g
 
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. Antique boxes in photos are for illustrative purposes only.