unusual c1920 Shell Cameo Brooch ~ Ornate 14K & Sterling Frame

Jewelry : Vintage : Cameo : Brooch

 

Although not a fine antique cameo, this brooch has a beauty all it's own. The large ornate foliate leaf mounting frames the cameo quite nicely. The frame is marked with a trademark with the letters ML in a shield which sadly I could not reference, and is also stamped All Precious metal sterling & 14K. The fronts of the leaves are gold while the scroll work is sterling and the entire back is sterling. The cameo is carved from a cornelian helmet shell and is set in a bezel mounting inside the frame. It has a safety clasp on the back for secure wearing. The portrait of the woman is well carved, depicting a captivating look with her head turned down slightly as if she was deep in thought. Her curly hair is up-swept with two flowers tucked at the nape of the neck. Overall the brooch measures 1 3/4" by 1 1/2" and the cameo is 1" by 3/4". All original, no blemishes or repairs to note.

Item ID: 110209-1523