Cameos: Add Delicate and Enduring Elegance to Your Collection

The word “cameo” refers to a carving method featuring a relief image that contrasts in color from its background. Traditionally, cameos are carved from a single material, usually shell or stone. Ancient cameos were made from precious gemstones, but shell cameos have been popular since the Victorian era, and are the most commonly sold today.

A cameo can have any scene or subject, but the most popular motif is the profile of a woman. Ancient cameo carvings came from Greece and Rome. In the modern era, Italy has prevailed as the cameo cutting epicenter of the world.

Jewel of Havana’s current line of cameos come predominantly from Italy, and were carved in the early 1900’s. Artist Ana Maria Andricain blends the old with the new, pairing vintage cameos with modern settings in rings, pendants.and earrings. Jewel of Havana has cameos in mother of pearl, and conch, both of which, are characterized by their subtle contrasts in colors, and which make a beautiful compliment to their fine silver settings.

New pieces featuring modern, blue agate cameos, carved with lasers by a German artist, are so stunning that the majority have been bought before they could even be photographed.

Cameos are very delicate, and they require special care. They should be cleaned regularly, as dust can collect in ridges and scratch the surface. Never use soap or jewelry cleaner on cameos. After dusting they can be rinsed in plain warm water and dried with a soft cloth. Oil your cameos with mineral oil once a year and they will stay beautiful for decades. You will enjoy them and want to pass them on.

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Vintage Cameo Pendant

Vintage Cameo Statement Ring

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