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 Victorian (ca1880) cameo pin is hand carved from shell and is simply gorgeous! The oval-shaped cameo depicts "Erato", the Greek muse of lyric poetry and mimicry. Erato is depicted holding a lyre as her loose garments flow freely behind her. Her hair is held within an updo, and her eyes are gazing into the distance. The cameo is held in place by a four-prong setting, and an additional sterling silver frame. The frame is encased with bead-set marcasites, which wonderfully complement the sterling silver setting. The back of the piece features a bail and a pin clasp, allowing the piece to be worn on a favorite chain or attached to a garment. The back of the cameo is marked with an "8". A fantastic cameo, this pin/pendant would be perfect for any Victorian-era jewelry collector!

Measurements: The cameo pin measures approximately just under 1/2" tall (including the complementary bail), and is 1" wide.

Condition: The overall condition of the pin/pendant is excellent. There is no apparent damage to the cameo, and all of the marcasites are secure and intact. The complementary bail and pin clasp are both secure and in working order.