Late Victorian Gold-Filled Shell Cameo Swag Necklace

Jewelry : Antique : Victorian

 

What I like most about this piece from ca. 1890 is the use of multiple shades of gold ~ the delicate chain and base of curling tendrils are a darker gold, while the leaves and flowers that frame the cameo and form the dangles alternate between a coppery rose gold and a brilliant yellow gold. The left-facing lady cameo is detailed and beautifully hand-carved, set firmly in a bezel so it will never fall out. Higher up on either side are additional rose gold flower and yellow gold leaf motifs. The necklace is 17-1/2" long, with the festoon taking up 3-5/8" of that. It's in excellent vintage condition, though it could use a thorough cleaning.

Item ID: GFCAMEONK