Posted 7 years ago
AdeleC
(498 items)
I was looking through my brooches today, and it occurred to me that this one has some age, and may even be she'll? It is translucent when held up to the light. I would love to know who the man is. Does anyone recognise him? It has a chain and safety pin. If anyone can help me with age and if it is shell or not that would be great. The other brooches seem to be modern or vintage, but I thought I would share them with you.
I have no knowledge of cameos, but all that you have are really quite beautiful!
This might help:
http://www.collectorsweekly.com/fine-jewelry/cameos
Your brooch has a c clasp/tube hinge, so that makes it Victorian - 1837-1901 in date. It's unlikely that you will find out who the man is...
Thank you for your comments and knowledge of cameos. They are very helpful.
The cameo itself is definitely helmet shell. (His house mates all appear to be modern resin pieces.) Efesgirl is correct that there is only a slim chance of IDing him, as he is just as likely to be some anonymous tourist as a personage of note in his time. Probably set at about the same time it was cut. Styles of hair (& mustache if he has one - can't tell), collar & neck wear are clues to follow on age. My best guess is that the setting dates to the middle of the Victorian.
Thank you very much, Cameosleuth, that is very interesting. I only bought it in charity shop so amazing it is so old. I know the others are modern - some better quality than others!