Huge Cameo

Antique huge conch shell cameo of lady's profile. The cameo is set in a gorgeous setting made of 18k gold with hinged bail and brooch pin across the back. The setting is embellished with a rope design. Hand carved in Italy from Mediterranean conch shell.  Could be worn as a brooch or a pendant on a chain.  Circa 1890.  Specifications: Weight: 17.7g Size: 60x45mm Material: Carved conch shell cameo Metal: 18K Yellow gold The iconic cameo is made by engraving an image into an object, most commonly the conch shell. Conch shells carve very well, but their color fades over time. It nearly always features a raised image, usually a woman in white, against a coral orange background, better known as a relief image. The intaglio image is cut into the background of the shell. These are very rare and takes a master skills man to produce. There are few cameo makers because it is one of the hardest challenges for any gemstone carver.