Large Antique Goddess Diana Shell Cameo Brooch Pendant 10K Rose Gold

Jewelry : Antique : Fine : Carved, Cameo : Carnelian Shell : Mythological : Diana : Brooch : Pendant : 10k Rose Gold

 

Simply the best! The superb quality, condition and size of this genuine carnelian shell cameo coupled with its unique and most intricately etched solid 10K rose gold setting make this beautiful cameo pendant a must have! From the early 1900's, this fabulous cameo is a definite heirloom piece with the beauty and craftsmanship to last many generations.

The entire setting (without the bale) measures 2 1/2" by 1 7/8". The cameo itself measures 2 1/8" by 1 5/8". The weight is 13.6 grams. The solid rose gold brooch pin closes with a locking c-clasp and there is a fold-down, hide-away bale for use as a pendant. It is in excellent original condition with only two growth plate lines that were original to the shell and carving when carved. The are inside the shell, do not break the surface front or back, or hardly visible to the eye and not unusual is this gossamer style.

The cameo is a depiction of the Goddess Diana, with her signature moon in hair that is braided on top with lovely tendrils hanging down her neck. The blush in her cheeks is wonderful and a testament to the carver's skill. The carving is still very crisp, most likely due to the protection such a heavy setting has provided over the years. However, the excellent condition of the setting as well defines the loving care this beautiful piece of jewelry has received in its lifetime.

Diana . . . The Roman Goddess was known by many names including Queen of Heaven; the Great Goddess; Lunar Virgin; Mother of Animals; Lady of Wild Creatures; and the Huntress. Diana as the Roman Moon-Goddess was originally worshipped on the mountain Tifata near Capua and in sacred forests. Later she was given a temple in the working-class area on the Aventine Hill where she was mainly worshipped by the lower class (plebeians) and the slaves, of whom she was the patroness. She is often depicted carrying a bow and arrow and wearing animal skins or accompanied by animals.

When the Greek city of Ephesus fell to Roman rule, Goddess Diana was merged with the Greek Goddess Artemis. This is most likely due to the fact that around the time of the Roman empire, Romans would allow the places they over took to continue worshipping their own Gods and Goddesses, incorporating those Goddesses into the Roman Pantheon. Artemis and Diana were worshipped at the same times historically and when the Great Greek Temple of Artemis was destroyed the Romans rebuilt it in honor of Diana and the myth of Goddess Diana of Ephesus began.

Stories of Goddess Diana are told from the beginning of Troy to the Christian Bible of King James in the scriptures of Acts and the gospels of Paul.

The cameo no doubt is of Italian origin. Due to the intricate design of the setting, I believe it is also of Italian origin. Most collectors, including myself, agree that the most excellent gold work came from Italian craftsmen. Not only is it beautiful and unique, but their work has stood the test of time.

Cameo carving families in Italy are still today for the most part a cottage industry, meaning tight knit families passing their craft down to their sons, grandsons and today granddaughters. The carvers did not set the cameos themselves and for the most part cameos were bought locally as souvenirs to be taken home for personalized setting (which costs a fortune today), or shipped abroad to be set for retail sale. Those cameos that were and still are today custom set in Italy will always be done by a gold/silversmith and not the carvers themselves.

Most likely from my description, you can tell that I LOVE this antique cameo! And so will you....as well as that special person on your shopping list. This makes a perfect gift for any occasion that is ready to wear upon arrival or presentation. All women love beautiful and unique jewelry and accessories, most definitely a focal point any day!

It will be delivered in a lovely rosewood and white leather presentation case, perfect for display or storage. In addition, we will include a cameo easel so this one of a kind piece of art can be enjoyed even when it is not worn! Our complimentary cameo care instructions will help you to keep her in perfect condition always.

For the perfect present, Give a gift from the past.

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: RL-00689

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Diana The Huntress