14k Goldfilled Wire-Wrapped Pendant with Authentic Handcarved Shell Cameo of the Goddess Demeter

I have wrapped this stunning antique/early vintage carved shell cameo pendant in 14k goldfilled wire with a swirling design around the bail and added 14k goldfilled beads to add extra shine and shimmer. 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 to early vintage carving depicting the Greek goddess Demeter, who was the goddess of the harvest. You can tell this by the sheaves of wheat in her hair. Demeter was also known as Ceres in Roman mythology. She is a hard to date cameo, perhaps ranging from the late 1910s up to the late 1920s. She has a carving on the back with the letters "L.M." and year that I believe reads "1966". I don't think that this cameo dates to 1966, but rather it was carved the commemorate that year for "L.M." - perhaps a marriage or birthday! 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! The carving on the back makes her especially unique.

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" x 1"

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. Do not push on the cameo or manipulate the wire of the pendant, as this may cause instability over time.

Please note that all dates of age for cameos given are estimates.