- Description
- Specifications
A wonderful early Australian hand carved cameo brooch from the late 19th century, c1900! Made of 9ct gold, this delightful shell cameo depicts a 19th century Roman-esque woman's head and shoulders. The white on greyish-brown carving is skillfully hand carved in the rarer Queen Helmet Conch shell, also known as Sardonyx Shell.
The cameo rests in a bezel collet and features a beautifully decorated border of textured leaves, coiled 'tendrils', and one flower rests at the top and bottom of the vine design. The fine detailed gold fauna indicative of early Australian work. A metal pin and c-connection attaches to the back, along with a safety chain/pin for extra security. A maker's mark to the back is indistinct, albeit can decipher the first two letters: 'OR'. Possibly one of the earlier works of Adelaide Jeweller 'ORAM & SENN', or Sydney jeweller 'R.B. ORCHARD'.
The brooch measures 5.00cm x 3.70cm.
Video of the brooch can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/X4nAAzXSjwk
This lovely early Australian cameo brooch would make an elegant addition to any collection!
Victorian, c1900 | |
9ct gold | |
Sardonyx shell cameo | |
Indistinct - partially seen ‘OR’ | |
10.71 grams | |
5.00cm x 3.70cm | |
The antique brooch presents in superb condition. Besides general surface wear, the cameo shell is in excellent order with no cracks or damage. The decorative gold motifs are all intact with none missing. Pin works well with good tension |