14k Goldfilled Wire-Wrapped Antique Carved Shell Cameo of Goddess Flora

I have wrapped this gorgeous antique carved shell cameo pendant in 14k goldfilled wire with a swirling design around the bail. This cameo was carved by taking a piece of conch shell and carving through the natural layers to create the figure seen here. This technique is known as "cameo carving" and has been around since ancient times.

Looking at the features of the woman in the cameo, I believe this is an antique carving depicting the goddess Flora, due to the wonderfully rendered flowers and vines that flow through her hair and onto her dress. She may date from around 1900 up to 1920, which I believe due to the quality of her carving and style of her facial features. Flora was the Roman goddess for Spring and is associated with new birth and fertility. This is a large and substantial cameo, please view all photos of her. She's in wonderful condition for her age, without any noticeable cracks or crazing and without chips to her carving.

This pendant would look stunning on anyone and would be a truly one-of-a-kind, unique gift! It is perfect for antique and vintage jewelry collectors or anyone who appreciates works of art!

Please wear her with care as this is a piece of natural carved shell. I would suggest not wearing her with other pendants or chains that would bump into her, resulting in chips or scratches. Also please remove before applying any lotions, creams, or perfumes as the shell could absorb them and become unstable or change in color. Do not wear or submerge in any water.

MEASUREMENTS: 2 3/4" x 1 5/16"

MATERIALS: 14k goldfilled wire, carved shell cameo

CHAIN: This pendant comes with a complimentary goldfilled chain.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Over time, gold-fill wire may show some wear or change of color, however it is very durable. Gold-filled wire is a tube of gold that has been filled with a base metal, (generally pure jeweler's brass), and the two are securely bonded together with heat and pressure. Each purchase from my shop comes with a complimentary yellow polishing cloth, which you may use at any time to polish your piece. (The cloth will still work even as it gets darker; do not wash the polishing cloth.) When polishing, try to avoid the stone so as not to scratch it. Please do not wear in the shower or pool. Please do not push on the cameo or manipulate the wire in this pendant as it may cause a loss of integrity and wear over time.