SALE Aniello Pernice Neptune Shell Cameo Brooch Pendant 14K GF Onyx Bead Necklace

Artisan Jewelry : Pendants : Cameo : Shell : Sardonyx : Mythology : Neptune : Brooch Pendant : Sterling : Gold : Cameo : Aniello Pernice : Sardonyx Shell : Mythological : Neptune : Brooch : Pendant

 

Cameo carving is an art form that has been passed down from generation to generation in the small town of Torre del Greco, located just south of Naples, Italy. This is a daunting sardonyx shell cameo carving of the Roman god, Neptune, also known as Poseidon in Greek mythology. It is the work of the master carver, Aniello Pernice, and signed "Ani Pernice" across Neptune's shoulders. Mr. Pernice is a third generation "maestro" in his 50's from Torre del Greco, world renown for his antique classical cameo carvings. His museum quality cameos are highly revered and sought after in Japan, the number one cameo market in the world--where price is no object for high quality signed carvings. Does this cameo carving look like the new ones you have seen? No, Mr Pernice carves in the old style we all love so much. We are pleased to offer this fine masterpiece here in the USA.

The entire pendant measures 55x45mm (2 3/16" by 1 13/16") not including the bail. With the large mouthed bail, the total drop of the pendant measures 2 3/4". The setting is quite elaborate compared to most modern counterparts, inspired by the meticulous designs from the 1800's. Crafted from gold over silver, it has been embellished with black enamel on the outer surround of the bezel. The combination of black enamel and yellow gold gives Neptune a bold and most handsome frame.

The cameo itself measures 40x30mm (1 9/16" by 1 3/16"). It is securely mounted in a gallery setting (my favorite for beauty and security). Note the thickness of the outer bezel measures 10mm wide on both the front and back of the setting. The elaborate and substantial setting itself is stamped "A. Pernice", as it, too, is a creation from the goldsmiths of the Aniello Pernice Cameo Co. in Torre del Greco. The total weight of the cameo pendant brooch is an amazing 26.3 grams.

The pendant is suspended from a custom made black onyx bead necklace, which is a marvelous match for this masterpiece and is, of course, included. It measures 18" long, features 4mm onyx beads and 5mm gold fill beads, and is completed with a 7mm 14K GF locking clasp. The clasp itself features a swirled and hammered design and has a slide-in lock closure. The bale is also large enough to accommodate up to a 4mm Omega necklace. I have worn it that way and it looks terrific.

Neptune was the Roman god of Sea and Earthquakes. Neptune's father, Cronos, was defeated by Neptune and his two brothers, Jupiter (Zeus) and Pluto (Hades). The brothers then divided creation into three parts, with Neptune taking the Sea, his brother Pluto the underworld and Jupiter the sky.

Sailors prayed to Neptune for a safe voyage, sometimes drowning horses as a sacrifice. So the image of a horse is also often associated with Neptune. He was indeed known for his terrible temper and was able to contrive deadly earthquakes, shipwrecks and drownings with a strike of his trident to the ground....thus the nickname "Earth Shaker". When in a good mood, however, Neptune created new islands and calm seas. He fell in love with the water nymph, Amphitrite. When she refused his proposal of marriage, Neptune sent one of his dolphins out to plead to Amphitrite again for her hand in marriage. The dolphin did indeed change her mind and she said "yes". So elated, Neptune honored the dolphin by sending him to the heavens as the constellation Dolphinus. So, one can see why depictions of Neptune often include his trusty friend the dolphin. The trident, a three-pronged fishing spear is also associated with the god of the sea. In this carving, the laurel wreath he is wearing appears to even have trident shaped leaves.

It is thought that the planet Neptune was named for this ruler of the sea because of its deep sea blue color.

This is one absolutely gorgeous cameo and setting at a below market price, destined for greatness. Cameo carvings of Neptune are rare, and more often he is included as part of a scene. Detailed bust carvings such as this are more often depictions of the gods Zeus and Bacchus. You will not believe the beauty of this one on. One of Mr. Pernice's cameos is a great investment that you will truly be proud to wear.

For that number one girl on your gift list or treat yourself. Elegantly gift boxed for presentation and storage in a rosewood and white leather presentation case. In addition, you will receive a copy of our cameo care instructions to keep your cameos glowing for generations to come.

When you find the perfect gift, you needn't worry about the perfect box. Presentation is where it's at. We all love it!

Always free shipping in the USA with a no hassle return policy. We want our customers to love our pieces as much as we do. If for ANY reason you do not, we are happy to refund your purchase price and the return shipping. And none of those ridiculous restocking fees at Cameo Couture. NEVER will be. We pledge and guarantee every item we sell will be loved or totally refunded so you can try whatever appeals to you hassle free.

Item ID: C-1445

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Fantastic Aniello Pernice Original