This antique piece was crafted sometime during the Victorian design period (1840-1900). Cameos and intaglios (images carved into the stone) have been around for a long time, even since ancient civilization. During the Victorian era cameos were carved from a whole range of materials; coral, agate, helmet shell, and sometimes even volcanic lava rock. This particular piece was carved from helmet shell. This is easily recognizable from it’s caramel colored background. Helmet shell is a great medium for cameos because it fades very little over time. During the Victorian Era, and still today, cameos were almost exclusively hand carved in Italy. Bringing back a cameo from a trip to Italy during this time was the ultimate status symbol because international travel was very expensive. This particular piece was most likely carved in Italy and the cameo presents three flowers. The three flowers are most likely representative of the three graces of Greek mythology; mirth, elegance, and youthful beauty. During this time Victorians were enamored with ancient Greek and Roman design and culture. You can see a lot of that influence in jewelry, art, and architecture from the Victorian Era. The setting is 14k gold and features a simple bezel with minimal details. This ring is currently a size 5 & 1/2.
Sizing available upon request.
Item number 3Y6MAD
