Art Deco Italian 18k Shell Cameo Flower Pin/Pendant

The earliest known use of shell for cameo carving was during the 15th and 16th centuries. Before that, cameos were carved from hardstone. The Renaissance cameos are typically white on a grayish background and were carved from the shell of a mussel or cowry. In the mid 18th century, explorations revealed new shell varieties. Helmet shells from the West Indies, and queen conch shells from the Bahamas arrived in Europe, thus sparking a big increase in the number of cameos that were carved from shells. Most commonly, cameos portrayed the faces or images of Romanesque women. Most often they had upswept hairstyles and some were even adorned with jewelry. The cameos usually depicted the portrait of the “idealized” woman or god’s and goddesses from mythology.

This Art Deco (ca1930) cameo pin is hand carved from shell and is simply gorgeous! The large cameo is set in an ornate 18k gold frame, which is surrounded by a smaller, gold rope-like border design. The beautiful cameo is highly detailed, depicting a large central blooming flower, and smaller budding flowers. The flowers are also surrounded by supporting foliage. On the back is a secure pin clasp, and “750”, a small star, “SC” and “NA” hallmarks. The cameo also features a gold bail, allowing the pin to be added a a chain and worn as a necklace. This exquisite brooch would make a lovely addition to any cameo collection!

Measurements: The cameo pin measures approximately 1 1/2″ tall, is 1 1/2″ wide and approximately 1/4″ deep.

Condition: The overall condition of the brooch is excellent. There is no apparent damage to the cameo or to the gold setting and the pin clasp is secure and in good working condition.