Antique Cameo Jewelry

Greek Mythology

This Antique French Cameo in gold mounting is a cameo master-piece.
The cameo artist took his inspiration from a ceiling fresco by Guido Reni, which was completed in 1613-1614. This fresco, is a monumental work and measures 280 cm (110 inch) x 700 cm (275 inch), (not the cameo) and can be found in a palace in Rome by the name of - “The Palazzo Pallavicini-Rospigliosi” built by the Borghese family on the Quirinal Hill.

The fresco like this Antique cameo depicts Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn as she leads the sun god Apollo on his chariot at break-o-day, bringing-in daylight to the world.

Occasional jewelry wearers and jewelry lovers alike, are enchanted by the beauty of Cameo Jewelry. Even if you do not wear any jewelry at all, who can resist being drawn into the world of ancient greek mythology.

What is an Antique Cameo Anyway?

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An antique cameo is a carving made from a single piece of gem material many years ago and contains the added store of value of rarity and age.

A cameo is the name for a relief which is cut so that it is raised. An Intaglio is the name for engraving with negative image, as used for seals.

When a carving is successful, you will not be aware that color has been used deliberately to make the carving pleasing to the eye.

It is only after examining the composition of a carving that the adroit use of color is recognized as a primary reason that the work of art is so satisfying.

An oval white background can form a background for the design of the cameo, which may be a reddish color for example, of shell or carnelian.

Classic Old Cameos often reveal scenes of classical history, depicted in the form of classical mythology. One of the most famous Antique Cameos in the History of Cameo is the Tazza Farnese.

This famous cameo can trace its origins all the way back to 31 BC! The reason that the Tazza Farnese can do this, is because of the gemstone it was carved from - Sard Onyx, which is relatively hard on the Mohs Scale.

The popularity of French and Italian Cameo Jewelry is not only due to their incomparable beauty and fine craftsmanship but also the fascinating Ancient Greek mythology that provides the inspiration behind many of the meticulously carved scenes.

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