Antique Garnet Pendant/Brooch, c. 1860

Large and Exquisite Etruscan Revival pale pink hand carved conch shell cameo of Medusa, American, 1875. Set in 14K yellow gold with an acid finish or "bloom" so that the gold color is a rich but soft finish (not highly polished) which appears to be a high, 20 or 22, karat gold. This brooch/pendant is a vertical oval (denoting the 2nd half of the 19th century) measures 3-1/16 inches tall, by 2-1/8th inches wide without the 5/8 inch long pendant bale. Though unsigned or hallmarked the craftsmanship associated with the gold work in the Etruscan Revival style is nothing short of exceptional from the stylized wing and snake motifs to the perfectly shaped and spaced tiny spherical gold granulation. And, as for the carving of the pink shell cameo...

Antique silver topped yellow gold brooch and pendant centering a gem quality natural approximately 22 ct. Siberian amethyst in a fancy octagonal shape. This stone, prong set, has an ...

This 18K white gold pendant pave set with white diamonds accented with enamel depicts a cute jockey and even cuter stallion trying ever so hard to win! This pendant, which can also ...

Exquisite substantial pendant necklace crafted in 18k yellow gold. The piece features a detailed enamel painting of cherubs, surrounded by a border of natural white pearls. The pend...

Antique Garnet Pendant 18ct Gold Tested Circa 1870 A fabulous, Victorian piece. Set with gorgeous, faceted garnets- an almost red grape- purple colour. Framed in beautiful, orna...

A Victorian garnet and diamond pendant/brooch, the heart shaped cabochon garnet surmounted by a floral and foliate spray, set throughout wit...

This is a gorgeous Antique Art Deco - Victorian Pendant or Brooch set with sparkling blood red Bohemian Garnets in a target circle motif. The Garnets are full of radiant sparkle and...

Welcome to Artisan Antiques based in Mayfair, London - We are delighted to offer this magnificent large antique 18ct gold shell cameo brooch/pendant locket made c.1860, depicting a figurehead of Hera - a Greek mythological goddess of women, marriage and childbirth (also referred to as Juno by the Romans). Its majestic presence, distinguished design and impressive size are immediately captivating even to the untrained eye and whilst undeniably attractive and delightful even at a quick glance, it is upon closer inspection that its true splendour and intricacy can be fully appreciated. The overall design features a whole array of wonderful embellishments and craftsmanship; a profusely decorated frame made from solid 18ct gold is accented with layers of applied gold ribbons/bows, beads and twist-rope borders. What is particularly noteworthy about this frame/border is the fact it has a concave 'doughnut' like shape that contours the cameo whilst also allowing for the spinning locket design to function flawlessly. Upon unfastening the rear pin, the central cameo spins around and presents a locket with a portrait of a gentleman and the fine mechanism and craftsmanship of the central piece can be further appreciated. The portrayal of Hera 'in profile' (side on) is simply splendid with crisp engravings, attractive proportions and an almost lifelike texture/facial expression in the manner of Renaissance sculptures. The reverse side of the brooch reveals a large pin for fastening on to a coat lapel or jumper with an additional later added safety chain. Further, the bail at the top allows for this piece to be worn as a magnificent pendant necklace. All of the combined factors make this cameo brooch a wonderful collectable piece of 19th-century antique jewellery history which would not only make for an excellent display piece but an inimitable and breathtaking brooch to wear on special occasions. Not only would the aesthetic be impressionable, but as a conversation starter, this brooch may serve as the perfect occasion to share your discerning historical/antiques passion...