18 carat gold antique hardstone cameo ring made in 1899

Cameos have traditionally been carved from shell which is a relatively soft material that allows for some magnificent cameos to be produced, and the finest of all the cameos have been carved from much harder material from the cryptocrystalline quartz family such as sardonyx, onyx and carnelian such as in this very beautiful antique cameo that was made in Birmingham in 1899.

The oval cameo is set in a very elegant 18 carat setting and depicts a young maiden playing a lyre with such a demure and feminine look to her. The detail is just wonderful and as hardstone cameos are substantially more difficult to carve than shells, this was only left to the very best carvers.

The frame around the cameo measures 17.8mm by 9.7mm and the ring sits perfectly on the finger where it accentuates the hand so well.

Perfect for any finger, this antique cameo ring is so elegant and refined, and typical of the gorgeous late Victorian era.

Stock# ES9178

Hallmarked: Birmingham 1899

$Sold.