SOLD Fine 930 Silver Shell Cameo Brooch Pendant w/ Sparkling Marcasites--SIGNED Morelli

Jewelry : Vintage : Carved, Cameo : Shell : Cornelian : Portrait : Brooch : Pendant : 930 Silver : Marcasite

$299 USD SOLD
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Dazzling marcasites are the perfect accent for shell cameos and add a warm, sparkling glow. Popularized during the Victorian Period as their beauty under gas lighting equaled that of diamonds. So much in fact, they were often called "black diamonds". Marcasites were incorporated into a variety of jewelry designs and are still beloved today for those radiant beams of light given off in low evening or bright daytime light.

This large carnelian shell cameo measures 50mm (2") tall by 39mm (just over 1 1/2") wide and can be worn as a brooch or necklace pendant. The carving features a 1920-1930's beauty all decked out for a ball, wearing dangle drop earrings and a soft flowing evening gown. Her soft curls are upswept and her facial features are perfect. The carving is highly detailed and still very crisp. The artist has signed the back of the cameo and the still crisp signature reads "Morelli". Perhaps the carver was a descendant of the famed Nicolo Morelli who died in 1838, as the art of cameo carving is one that is passed from one generation to the next.

The silver frame features a scrolled design and has a total of 27 marcasites, all original. There are six at the top, and seven set on each side and bottom. The brooch pin, hinge and safety clasp are original and in good working order, with the pin stamped "930". The setting retains its original pendant bail, as well. The total weight is 11.4 grams, quite hefty as the shell is uniformly thick.

Both shell and setting are in excellent condition without cracks or chips. When candled to the light, there is not even one growth plate, an attribute to the growing process of all shells used for carving and even present in most new cameos.

This is a very elegant cameo in the large size that all women want. She will be delivered in a lovely presentation box, perfect for gift giving and storage. In addition, you will receive a copy of our cameo care instructions.

Item ID: C-1588