Cameos have traditionally been carved from shell and hardstone agates such as onyx, however some were even carved by hand from lava such as what can be seen here in this amazing bracelet.
Lava has these often muted soft colours and tones, with a somewhat earthy sensation to the touch. Due to the material being what it is, only very experienced carvers were capable of carving lava, and even then only the best could achieve such fine detail as can be seen in the six panels in this bracelet.
With each panel measuring quite a large 26.3mm across by 30.7mm, they all depict the most charming cherubs. All have such detail that is in itself truly amazing to admire when you consider the material that they were all hand carved from, and then made all the more impressive when you consider that this is not only a piece of jewellery to be worn, but all of this was hand carved and made around 160 years ago. While some of the cameos have minor wear, it is a true testament to the quality of antiques.
With the mounts for the cameos made in 15 carat gold, the bracelet itself measures 18cm in length and is fitted with a safety chain for added security.
A truly unique and exceptional antique bracelet, this is certainly a piece that will always get the attention and admiration that it truly deserves.
Stock# ES9614
Circa: 1860
$Sold.
Out of stock
Exquisite antique lava cameo bracelet made in the 1860's
A brief history on lava cameos:
Pompeii and Herculaneum were two cities buried in 79 A.D. by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and covered by ash and lava until rediscovered in 1748. When Edward George Bulwyer-Lytton published The Last Days of Pompeii in 1834, it increased the desirability for lava cameos.
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