Is there anyway to tell who the person on the cameo is? I'm no expert but it doesn't look like a mythological icon...your thoughts?
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Back of the cameo by: Brandi
Here is a pic of the back of the cameo...unfortunately I can't get it much clearer than this. The gem itself can't be seen from the back only the little black "star" which is directly behind where it is set. The VIII is so light its impossible to catch on my camera.
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Reverse of Cameo Provides Dating Clues by: Anonymous
it's not uncommon to find roman numerals carved onto the reverse of an antique cameo, it could be in reference to a date. Possibly 1908?
If it's an antique diamond (presuming it is a natural diamond and the original stone), then the antique diamond cut will provide dating clues. The hardware on the reverse will provide clues. Can you upload a photo of the reverse?
best wishes,
Yvonne
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Another question by: Brandi
Thanks! Do you know of any way to trace the number if it is a registry or piece number? I tried googling all sorts of things, and can't find anything about any artist using a VIII as a mark of any kind on jewelry.
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Antique Cameo Valuations by: Anonymous
Hi Brandi
I agree, this does look like a lovely Cameo indeed. Yes, Sandy, good point you mention. A diamond tester would come in handy here.
Hi Brandi I believe cameo pendant brooches were popular in the last quarter of the 19th century. The orange color material is the conch shell, this is a type of shell, used to carve these lovely ladies into art form. The numbers, if they are scratched into the back of the shell, could be some type of registry number or pattern number. I believe the Italian smiths were allocated registry numbers at one stage. I think it would be a good idea to have the diamond tested. It looks beautiful! Sandy
